N.Y. Public Health Law § 2504-b: Information concerning pelvic exams

§ 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.