(a) A licensed abortion facility shall ensure patient
education/information services are provided to each woman on whom
the abortion is to be performed or induced to:
(1) ensure compliance with Health and Safety Code §171.011
(relating to Informed Consent Required), and §171.012 (relating
to Voluntary Informed Consent) concerning informed consent by utilizing
the sonogram and election form as set out in Health and Safety Code §171.012,
signed by the woman prior to an abortion procedure, and maintained
in the patient's clinical record;
(2) prepare the patient for surgery in a manner that
facilitates her safety and comfort;
(3) assist the patient in reaching a decision about
the method of post-procedure birth control she will use, if any, and
respect her choices; and
(4) ensure, when medically appropriate, the patient
is advised of the physician's obligation to take all reasonable steps
to maintain the life and health of a child who is born alive.
(b) A licensed abortion facility shall, if needed,
refer a patient to a licensed mental health practitioner who provides
therapeutic intervention.
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