Tennessee Senate Bill SB0455

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to medical education.

Impact

The introduction of SB0455 is expected to have significant implications for state laws concerning medical education and the healthcare workforce. By requiring these universities to report on graduate outcomes specifically related to primary care, the bill aims to align medical education efforts with the state’s healthcare needs. The focus on primary care practitioners highlights a strategic effort to address any potential shortages in this area, which can be pivotal for improving healthcare access in Tennessee, especially in rural and underserved populations.

Summary

Senate Bill 455 aims to amend several titles within the Tennessee Code Annotated related to medical education. The bill mandates that the University of Tennessee and East Tennessee State University submit annual reports to various legislative committees. These reports are required to detail the number of students graduating each year from those institutions who intend to become practitioners in primary care medicine or family practice medicine. This provision is designed to enhance the tracking of educational outcomes and the state's healthcare workforce capabilities.

Contention

There may be varying opinions regarding the necessity and implications of this reporting requirement. Supporters of the bill might argue that regular tracking of graduates will provide valuable data to ensure that educational programs remain responsive to the health needs of the state. On the other hand, critics could raise concerns that such a mandate might lead to additional administrative burdens on these educational institutions, potentially diverting resources and attention away from core educational functions. The balance between accountability in medical education and institutional autonomy may become a point of discussion as the bill progresses.