New Jersey Assembly Bill A3184

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/22
• Refer: 3/7/22

Caption

Requires informed consent for breast implant surgery.

Impact

If enacted, A3184 will strengthen the regulations surrounding breast implant surgeries in New Jersey by ensuring that patients are fully educated about the potential complications, including serious conditions like breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma and breast implant illness. This legislation aims to safeguard patients' rights and promote informed decision-making, which is critical for maintaining trust in the healthcare system. The requirements for physicians to provide standardized information may lead to increased accountability in surgical practices.

Summary

Assembly Bill A3184, introduced on March 7, 2022, mandates that physicians obtain informed consent from patients prior to performing breast implant surgeries. The bill emphasizes the importance of providing comprehensive information about the risks and benefits involved in the procedure. Specifically, it requires that patients receive detailed written or electronic materials, which include descriptions of surgical risks, manufacturer information regarding the implants, and a candidate checklist aligned with FDA guidelines. This initiative is rooted in enhancing patient awareness and safety concerning medical procedures.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, the bill may face opposition from some medical professionals and advocacy groups who might argue that the requirements for detailed consent could impose additional burdens on physicians, particularly in surgical settings that already have rigorous demands. The balance between ensuring patient knowledge and maintaining efficient medical practice may emerge as a contentious topic in legislative discussions. Moreover, concerns may arise regarding the adequacy of the information provided and whether it sufficiently empowers patients to make informed choices without causing undue anxiety.