Bill > AB849

This bill requires healthcare providers, including clinics, general acute care hospitals, and other medical facilities, to implement a medical chaperone policy for sensitive ultrasound examinations involving areas like genitalia, breasts, rectum, and pubic or groin regions. Providers must inform patients that a medical chaperone will be available upon request and can provide this notice through hard copy, electronic transmission, or verbal communication. The bill defines a medical chaperone as a trained employee who assists or observes during sensitive examinations and requires providers to educate staff on proper chaperone techniques, including patient draping, maintaining neutrality, and reporting inappropriate behaviors. If a patient requests a medical chaperone, the provider must ensure one is present for the entire ultrasound examination and document the chaperone's presence in the patient's health record. In emergency situations, providers should inform patients about chaperone availability when feasible. If a medical chaperone is unavailable, the provider should work with the patient to find an acceptable alternative, such as waiting for a chaperone to become available. The bill applies to various healthcare providers but excludes facilities operated by the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. These provisions will become operative on January 1, 2027, and are designed to enhance patient comfort, safety, and consent during sensitive medical examinations.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB849