Texas House Bill HB2096

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to access to and benefits for mental health conditions and substance use disorders.

Impact

The bill establishes the role of an ombudsman for behavioral health access to care, whose responsibility includes helping consumers and healthcare providers navigate access issues related to behavioral healthcare. This ombudsman will also track and report potential violations of state or federal laws regarding access to mental health and substance use disorder benefits. The creation of this role is intended to improve the resolution of access issues and ensure compliance with existing regulations.

Summary

House Bill 2096 addresses access and benefits for mental health conditions and substance use disorders, aiming to ensure that such benefits are provided under the same terms and conditions as benefits for medical or surgical expenses. Specifically, the bill mandates that health benefit plans cannot impose treatment limitations or financial requirements on mental health benefits that are more restrictive than those for medical or surgical benefits. This equal treatment is a significant step in promoting mental health and substance use disorder parity in Texas healthcare coverage.

Contention

While proponents argue that HB 2096 is crucial for advancing mental health parity and improving access to necessary treatment, concerns have been raised about the implementation and enforcement of these requirements. Some stakeholders worry that health plans may find ways to circumvent these regulations, thus continuing disparities in treatment access. The effectiveness of the ombudsman's role and the coordination between various healthcare agencies will be critical in addressing these challenges.