N.Y.
Public Health Law Section 2504-B
Information concerning pelvic exams
1.
On or before July first, two thousand twenty-two, the department shall develop an informational pamphlet for patients undergoing pelvic examinations. In developing the pamphlet, the department shall consult with state professional societies representing physicians in general, obstetricians and gynecologists, family practice physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants and midwives. The pamphlet shall include but not be limited to information concerning, the following:(a)
what a pelvic exam is and how it is properly performed;(b)
if applicable, a description of other relevant exams;(c)
privacy expectations, including that privacy should be provided for the patient both when undressing and dressing and that a gown or a drape should be provided;(d)
an explanation of what a speculum is and how it should be properly used during an examination;(e)
that gloves should be worn by the practitioner during the examination; and(f)
a telephone number for the office of professional medical conduct in the department and the office of the professions in the state education department, at which a patient may report any misconduct that the patient feels may have occurred.2.
The informational pamphlet shall be made available for use by practitioners. The informational pamphlet shall be posted as a printable file on the department’s internet website, and may also be made available for order as a printed deliverable on the department’s internet website.3.
The informational pamphlet shall be written in layperson’s language and shall be made available in English and the six most common non-English languages spoken by individuals with limited English proficiency in New York state as based on the most recent census.4.
A practitioner may provide the patient the informational pamphlet developed pursuant to this section.5.
For purposes of this section, “practitioner” means a health care professional licensed, certified, or otherwise authorized to practice under the education law, acting within the scope of practice.
Source:
Section 2504-B — Information concerning pelvic exams, https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/laws/PBH/2504-B (updated Oct. 29, 2021; accessed May 4, 2024).
