Bill > HB548

This bill establishes new requirements for informed consent before a healthcare provider, defined as an individual licensed by the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure or the Kentucky Board of Nursing whose practice allows for these exams, can perform a pelvic, rectal, or prostate examination. Informed consent is defined as a patient or their authorized representative willingly agreeing to an examination after receiving clear, plain-language information about its nature, risks, benefits, alternatives, and the identity of those involved in their care, documented on a specific "intimate exam consent form." The bill prohibits performing such examinations on anesthetized or unconscious patients without prior informed consent, unless the exam is medically necessary for diagnosis or treatment, is part of a procedure the patient already consented to, or is ordered by a court with a compelling need that outweighs the patient's privacy. If an exam is performed under these exceptions, the patient must be notified as soon as possible, and any healthcare provider violating these provisions will face disciplinary action from their professional licensing board.

Health and Social Services

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/26RS/hb548.html