Virginia House Bill HB371

Virginia 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/6/24
• Refer: 1/6/24

Caption

Physicians; informed consent, procedure observation by students or trainees for teaching purposes.

Impact

The introduction of HB 371 impacts the practices of physicians by codifying the requirement for informed consent in situations involving educational observation. This change reflects a growing emphasis on patient rights and informed decision-making in medical settings. By requiring physicians to disclose the educational aspect of their procedures, the bill seeks to enhance the ethical standards of medical practice and foster a more informed relationship between physicians and their patients.

Summary

House Bill 371 mandates that physicians inform patients about the potential observation of their medical procedures by students or trainees for educational purposes. This legislative measure adds a new section to the Code of Virginia, requiring explicit disclosure to patients regarding the possibility of students observing the procedure in whole or in part. Moreover, it establishes that informed consent from the patient is mandatory before any observation by students or trainees can occur. This is aimed at ensuring transparency in medical education and protecting patient autonomy.

Contention

Controversy surrounding HB 371 may arise from concerns about its implications for medical training and patient comfort. Proponents are likely to argue that this legislation supports the educational needs of future healthcare professionals while ensuring that the rights and privacy of patients are safeguarded. However, opponents may raise issues about potential discomfort or anxiety patients might experience when informed that they could be observed during potentially invasive medical procedures. Balancing the needs of medical training with the rights of patients will be a key topic in discussions around this bill.