Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB125

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/24/23
• Refer: 3/24/23
• Report Pass: 3/13/24
• Refer: 3/13/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Requiring informed consent before performing a pelvic examination on a patient who is under general anesthesia or unconscious.

Impact

The proposed legislation would require every hospital to implement a strict policy ensuring that informed consent is not only requested but also documented both verbally and in writing before any such examination is performed. This would necessitate a shift in protocol within medical training programs and hospital procedures to educate pertinent personnel about the new requirements. Hospitals will also be mandated to enforce disciplinary actions against those who fail to comply with these policies, thereby enhancing accountability among students and supervising physicians.

Summary

Assembly Bill 125, introduced in the 2023-2024 legislative session, mandates the necessity of obtaining informed consent prior to performing pelvic examinations on patients who are under general anesthesia or otherwise unconscious. The bill specifically targets practices within hospitals and establishes clear legal parameters regarding the consent required for medical procedures carried out by medical and nursing students, as well as healthcare providers. This legislative measure aims to increase patient autonomy and safeguard the rights of individuals receiving medical care.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding AB125 may include the implications it has for medical education and practice. While proponents argue that the bill is a crucial step toward protecting vulnerable patients and ensuring ethical standards in medical care, opponents may voice concerns about the potential logistical challenges and the impact on training for medical and nursing students. There may also be a discussion around the balance between educational opportunities for students and patient rights, especially in emergency situations where consent might not be readily obtainable.