Tennessee House Bill HB0952

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Refer: 3/21/23
• Refer: 3/29/23
• Refer: 4/10/23
• Refer: 4/18/23
• Chaptered: 5/24/23
• Passed: 5/24/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 33; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to the regulation of healthcare facilities.

Impact

The bill impacts Tennessee Code Annotated Sections related to health regulation, chiefly by reorganizing the existing oversight framework and enhancing the enforcement mechanisms for compliance. By concentrating authority in the proposed Health Facilities Commission, the bill aims to create a more streamlined regulatory process that could lead to improved health outcomes through rigorous oversight and enforcement. The introduction of civil penalties and a more structured grievance process may also incentivize facilities to maintain higher standards in care delivery.

Summary

House Bill 0952 proposes significant amendments to existing legislation related to the regulation of healthcare facilities within Tennessee. It seeks to establish a Health Facilities Commission that would oversee the licensing and regulation of various healthcare entities, including nursing homes and rehabilitation facilities. The bill also introduces new frameworks for inspections, civil penalties for non-compliance, and requirements for facilities to report data regarding compliance and residents' rights. These changes are intended to enhance the quality of care for patients and improve accountability across the healthcare system.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding HB 0952 is cautiously optimistic, particularly among stakeholders advocating for improved healthcare standards. Supporters argue that the new provisions will provide necessary oversight and improve the accountability of healthcare providers. However, there are concerns regarding the potential burden these regulations could impose on smaller facilities, which may struggle to keep up with the compliance costs and administrative requirements. Stakeholders raised issues about whether the changes might unintentionally limit access to care in underserved areas.

Contention

Key points of contention include the scope of authority granted to the Health Facilities Commission and the appropriateness of the civil penalties outlined in the bill. Critics have expressed concerns that the bill may centralize power too heavily, potentially marginalizing local input in healthcare standards that could be better tailored to community needs. Additionally, there are apprehensions that the penalties for non-compliance may disproportionately affect smaller or rural healthcare facilities that might already be facing financial constraints.