MO HB1375

Department of Health and Senior Services must develop an informational brochure about human papillomavirus (HPV), cervical cancer, and HPV immunization availability for distribution to parents through public school districts.

Brochure must include information on cervical cancer risk factors and symptoms, HPV transmission and prevention methods including abstinence, immunization effectiveness, the continued importance of pap smears, and how to contact health care providers with questions.

Licensed physicians may use expedited partner therapy to prescribe and dispense pill-form antibiotics for treating chlamydia or gonorrhea to sexual partners of infected patients without requiring an established physician-patient relationship.

Physicians using expedited partner therapy must provide explanation and guidance to diagnosed patients about preventative measures to stop disease spread.

Physicians utilizing expedited partner therapy receive civil liability immunity unless they act negligently, recklessly, in bad faith, or with malicious purpose; Department of Health and Senior Services and Division of Professional Registration must develop implementation guidelines by rule.