Bill > HF1584

This bill introduces new requirements for obtaining informed consent before performing sensitive medical examinations on patients who are anesthetized or unconscious. Specifically, the bill defines "sensitive examination" as a pelvic, breast, urogenital, or rectal examination and establishes four key scenarios where such an examination can be performed. These include: (1) prior written consent from the patient or their legal representative for a necessary preventive, diagnostic, or treatment purpose; (2) consent for a surgical procedure or diagnostic exam where the sensitive examination is within the ordered scope of care; (3) examination necessary for diagnostic or treatment purposes when the patient is unconscious and unable to provide consent; and (4) court-ordered examinations for evidence collection purposes. Healthcare professionals, students, or residents who violate these requirements can be charged with a gross misdemeanor and may face disciplinary action from their professional licensing board. The bill will take effect on August 1, 2025, and will apply to crimes committed on or after that date, aiming to protect patient autonomy and prevent unauthorized medical procedures during vulnerable states of unconsciousness.

Health and Social Services

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=House&f=HF1584&ssn=0&y=2025