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26-281m New State-Mandated Chaperone Requirements for Sensitive Ultrasound Exams Start January 1, 2027
Effective date
Jan 1, 2027
Identified
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
Starting January 1, 2027, California Assembly Bill 849 requires providers performing sensitive ultrasound exams (genitalia, breast, rectum, pubic/groin areas) to notify patients of chaperone availability, provide trained chaperones upon request, and document chaperone presence in medical records. This is a compliance requirement that doesn't affect billing codes or reimbursement but requires new workflows and staff training.
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What to do
Action · 4 steps
01Before January 1, 2027: Clinical staff must establish patient notification procedures (verbal, electronic, or written) for chaperone availability during sensitive ultrasound exams.
02Train both clinical and non-clinical staff on appropriate observation techniques, patient draping, neutrality, and reporting procedures.
03Update EMR templates to document chaperone presence when provided.
04Front desk and clinical teams must implement new workflows for chaperone requests and documentation requirements.
Original notice
26-281m New State-Mandated Chaperone Requirements for Sensitive Ultrasound Exams Start January 1, 2027
providerlibrary.healthnetcalifornia.com · Always check the source before changing claims.
Related changes
See all Health Net changes →26-282m New State-Mandated Chaperone Requirements for Sensitive Ultrasound Exams Start January 1, 2027MediumEffective Jan 1, 2027 · Provider News26-283m New State-Mandated Chaperone Requirements for Sensitive Ultrasound Exams Start January 1, 2027MediumEffective Jan 1, 2027 · Provider NewsBrowse every Health Net change in the policy list