Ovarian cancer information program

§ 2409. Ovarian cancer information program. 1. There is hereby created within the department the ovarian cancer information program (referred to in this section as the "program"), which shall provide information for consumers, patients, and health care providers relating to ovarian cancer, including signs and symptoms, risk factors, the benefits of early detection through appropriate diagnostic testing and treatment options.

2. The program may include but not be limited to the following elements:

(a) educational and informational materials in print, audio, video, electronic, or other media;

(b) public service announcements and advertisements; and

(c) establishment of toll-free telephone hotlines to provide information.

3. The department shall produce, make available to others for reproduction, or contract with others to develop the materials mentioned in this section as the commissioner deems appropriate. These materials shall be made available to the public free of charge as appropriate or for a fee under certain circumstances. The commissioner shall require, where appropriate, health care providers to provide or make these materials available to patients.

4. In exercising any of his or her powers under this section, the commissioner shall consult with appropriate health care professionals, providers, consumers and patients, or organizations representing them.

5. In addition to any state funds appropriated for the program, the commissioner may accept grants from public or private sources for the program. The commissioner, in administering this section, shall seek to coordinate the program with other public and private efforts, and may undertake joint or cooperative programs with other public or private entities.

6. The commissioner may make rules and regulations necessary and appropriate for the implementation of this section.