relative to informed consent and patient rights.

This bill establishes new standards for informed consent and outlines specific patient rights within the state's medical practice laws. It requires physicians to clearly explain diagnoses, treatment options, risks, and benefits while documenting these discussions, and it grants patients the right to refuse care, request second opinions, and maintain privacy. Additionally, the legislation ensures that doctors will not abruptly stop medically necessary treatment without providing adequate notice and assistance for finding new care. These changes apply to all patient-physician interactions and take effect 60 days after the bill is passed.