NY A02168

Requires maternal health care providers (physicians, midwives, nurse practitioners, physician assistants) to provide written information about episiotomy to all patients planning a vaginal delivery before delivery, or after delivery if the vaginal birth was unplanned

Directs the Commissioner of Health to develop the written communication in consultation with health care professionals, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the New York State Association of Licensed Midwives

Mandates the written materials include information on potential maternal injuries from episiotomy, impact on future deliveries, circumstances when episiotomy may be medically necessary, and consent requirements

Requires the Commissioner to maintain and update the information to reflect current clinical guidelines

Takes effect 180 days after becoming law, with the Commissioner authorized to begin developing regulations immediately