The HHS says that hospitals must get written patient consent for sensitive exams

Written consent required for sensitive exams such as pelvic, breast or prostate exams, HHS says. HHS says patients will be under anesthesia during the exam if they are under anesthesia. New guidance clarifies that hospitals must obtain written consent for sensitive examinations. The guidance also clarifies if patients will undergo an exam with anesthesia.

H.H.S. says institutions could lose Medicare funding if they don't comply. The federal health agency says institutions must get written patient consent for the exams. The agency says the hospitals must get the written consent from their patients before they submit the exam. The letter comes with a warning that hospitals may lose Medicare funds if they do not comply.