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Bill

SB 708

Physicians; informed consent, disclosure of certain info. prior to hysterectomy or oophorectomy.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Richard Stuart

Virginia bill requiring physicians to disclose specific information and obtain explicit patient consent before performing hysterectomies or oophorectomies.

Assigned Education sub: Health Professions
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Bill Summary · SB 708

Legislative bill overview

SB 708 requires Virginia physicians to provide patients with specific information and obtain informed consent prior to performing hysterectomies (uterus removal) or oophorectomies (ovary removal). The bill mandates disclosure of certain details about these procedures before surgery can proceed.

Why is this important

Informed consent laws shape the doctor-patient relationship and patient autonomy in medical decision-making. This bill directly affects how reproductive surgeries are conducted in Virginia and reflects evolving standards around what information patients must receive before elective procedures.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of required disclosures: Disagreement may arise over which specific information must be disclosed (e.g., effects on hormones, sexual function, menopause symptoms, alternatives to surgery) and how detailed these disclosures should be
  • "Certain info" vagueness: The bill's reference to "certain info" without specifying details creates uncertainty about enforcement and what physicians must actually communicate
  • Medical autonomy vs. patient protection: Physicians may argue extensive disclosure requirements burden clinical practice, while patient advocates may contend more information is necessary for true informed consent

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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