S.B. No. 2626 aims to enhance the understanding and treatment of ectopic pregnancies and other pregnancy-related conditions among physicians and nurses in Texas. The bill amends the definition of "ectopic pregnancy" in the Health and Safety Code to include instances where a fertilized egg or embryo is implanted outside the uterus, in a nonviable intrauterine location, or in a scarred portion of the uterus. Additionally, it introduces new requirements for continuing medical education for physicians and nurses who treat pregnant women, mandating at least one hour of education on topics such as pregnancy-related medical emergencies, ectopic pregnancies, and situations involving a dead, unborn child due to spontaneous abortion.

The bill establishes specific educational content that must be covered in the continuing education, including standards of care, identification and response to medical emergencies, and effective communication strategies with patients and families. The Texas Medical Board and the Texas Board of Nursing are tasked with adopting rules to implement these new educational requirements by December 1, 2025. The provisions of the bill will apply to applications for renewal of registration permits and nursing licenses submitted on or after January 1, 2026, with the act taking effect on September 1, 2025.

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