Intimate medical examinations; require health care professionals to meet certain requirements regarding.

HB 1299 restricts health care professionals and students from performing intimate examinations (such as pelvic or breast exams) on sedated, anesthetized, or unconscious patients without specific written consent, except in emergencies, for standard care with consent, or under court order. It requires a detailed written consent form explaining the exam’s purpose, who will perform it, and whether a student will be involved, with separate consent options for professional and student-led exams. The bill mandates that providers notify patients about the exam before discharge and states violations or retaliation against reporters will lead to professional discipline by licensing boards. It explicitly excludes medical forensic exams for sexual assault investigations from these requirements. This law directly affects hospitals, clinics, and medical training programs in Mississippi, impacting patient consent processes during sedation.