A new law now requires all APRNs and other providers to develop and use a new GYN-PELVIC EXAM CONSENT FORM forperforming gynecological/pelvic exams in Florida. This general bill introduced in October 2019 by Senator Book and Representative Jenne (HB 1287) passed unanimously in both House and Senate and was signed by the Governor DeSantis on 6/18/2020. While the bill was brought forward related to several national and international legal cases alleging male fertility physicians inseminated women unknowing with their own sperm and only later the family discovered by DNA testing the genetic link to the fraudulent and abusing physician. This bill now criminalizes inseminating a woman without prior knowledge creating a new cause of action under “Reproductive Battery” and has more patient protections for reproductive facilities.
Butwithin this bill is the requirement for all providers to have a new consent form ready for use in the clinic or office before the gyn/pelvic exam is performed. The patient must be informed of the procedure and include who is conducting the exam, and the patient or legal guardian must sign the consent before the actual exam. It also has specific provisions for students in training or doing preceptorship. For more information see the Fl Bill SB 698. As we learn more information, we will share with you as well.
