A standardized summary discussing breast cancer treatment options and their risks and benefits must be given to members prior to a biopsy, notwithstanding whether treatment for breast cancer is planned or given. Providers may contact the Medical Board of California, Breast Cancer Treatment Options to request a free summary brochure. This information is also available from the National Cancer Institute.

The summary does not supplant the physician's duty to obtain the member's informed consent. In addition to distributing the brochure, physicians should discuss the risks, benefits and possible alternatives to any planned procedures with the member and document the discussion in the medical record.

Every physician who screens or performs biopsies for breast cancer must post a sign that is consistent with the brochure, which includes specific prescribed language. The sign must be posted close to the area where the breast cancer screening or biopsy is performed or at the patient registration area. The sign must be at least 8 1/2" x 11", conspicuously displayed, and in English, Spanish and Chinese. Refer to the California Health and Safety Code reference is 109275.

Providers are required to tell members receiving a digital rectal exam that a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is available for prostate cancer detection.

The National Cancer Institute provides information about the detection, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of prostate cancer on their website.

The Prostate Cancer Foundation Prostate Cancer Patient Guide provides information to patients on prostate cancer treatment options, and is available at The Prostate Cancer Foundation’s website. This booklet must be given by physicians upon examination of the prostate gland, to certain patients as specified by The Medical Board of California.