Health care; unauthorized pelvic examinations; exceptions; effective date.

HB 1018 prohibits healthcare providers (including physicians, nurses, and physician assistants) from performing pelvic examinations on anesthetized or unconscious female patients without written permission from the patient. Exceptions allow such exams only if they are part of a necessary surgical or diagnostic procedure, or if the patient cannot consent but the exam is medically required for diagnosis or treatment. The law directly affects female patients under anesthesia and healthcare providers who must obtain explicit consent or meet specific medical necessity criteria. It will take effect on November 1, 2025, and is codified in Oklahoma Statutes.