Prohibiting certain medical exams on anesthetized patients

SB 159 prohibits medical providers (including doctors, students, and residents) from performing pelvic, prostate, rectal, or breast exams on patients under anesthesia or unconscious without specific authorization. It requires prior written consent from the patient, guardian, or healthcare representative, except when the exam is part of an ordered surgical procedure, in a medical emergency, or court-ordered for evidence. Violations could result in sexual assault charges, a five-year license suspension, or fines between $1,000 and $10,000 deposited into a rape services fund. The law directly affects healthcare practitioners in West Virginia who conduct such exams during medical procedures.