Bill > SB288

This bill amends Georgia law to prohibit physicians from performing breast, pelvic, prostate, or rectal examinations on patients who are under anesthesia or unconscious without first obtaining prior informed consent. The new provision requires that such examinations can only be conducted if the patient (or their authorized representative) has given consent before the procedure, the examination is within the ordered scope of care, is medically necessary for diagnosis or treatment, or is court-ordered for evidence collection purposes. The bill also clarifies that the initial informed consent will be considered valid for all medical personnel directly involved in the patient's treatment, including those under the responsible physician's supervision, provided that the patient is informed that other medical personnel may perform the examination. This legislation appears aimed at protecting patient autonomy and preventing unauthorized medical examinations on patients who cannot provide real-time consent due to their medical state, thereby addressing potential issues of patient consent and medical ethics.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70910