Oklahoma Senate Bill SB586

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21

Caption

Informed consent; requiring informed consent for medical procedures and treatments; establishing certain requirements and exceptions. Effective date.

Impact

If enacted, SB586 would modify the legal framework surrounding patient consent, establishing clear definitions and requirements for both patients and physicians. It mandates that before any medical procedure, consent must be sought unless certain urgent conditions are met, thereby formalizing patient rights and physician responsibilities. The bill seeks to enhance patient autonomy and ensure that individuals are well-informed before proceeding with any medical treatments.

Summary

Senate Bill 586 aims to codify the requirements for informed consent in medical procedures and treatments within Oklahoma. The bill emphasizes that physicians must obtain informed consent from patients before conducting any medical interventions. This process is outlined to ensure patients understand the nature of the procedure, the possible risks, benefits, and alternatives. The physicians are expected to present this information clearly and document the consent process in the patient's medical record.

Contention

Notably, the bill includes exceptions such as in emergency situations where immediate treatment is necessary and informed consent cannot be obtained. There could be contention surrounding how this bill defines emergencies and the conditions under which consent may be bypassed. Discussions may arise regarding potential implications for patient care, especially about the balance between timely medical interventions and the necessity of informed consent.