Tennessee House Bill HB2701

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24
• Refer: 2/5/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 56; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to TennCare.

Impact

The implications of this bill are significant for both enrollees and healthcare providers within Tennessee's healthcare system. It establishes a timeline for emergency department stays and introduces penalties and payment obligations for TennCare or managed care organizations in instances where enrollees exceed the stipulated time without proper authorization. Particularly, if an enrollee remains in such facilities due to administrative errors, TennCare would be required to cover the medical services back to the point of admission, thereby alleviating financial burdens on patients resulting from delays in care.

Summary

House Bill 2701 is an act aimed at amending several sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically concerning the state's TennCare program. The bill mandates that enrollees cannot be kept in an emergency department or emergency room for more than seventy-two hours unless a healthcare professional determines that continued admission is medically necessary. This provision seeks to enhance patient rights within emergency healthcare settings, ensuring that enrollees are not left in prolonged states of uncertainty regarding their care.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 2701 appears to be supportive, especially among advocates for patient care and rights. Proponents highlight the importance of timely medical intervention and the need to regulate hospital stays to avoid unnecessary distress for patients and their families. However, some healthcare providers may express concerns regarding the potential administrative challenges this law could impose, particularly in relation to compliance and the logistics of tracking emergency room admissions and authorizations.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the specific definitions used in the bill, such as the criteria determining what constitutes a medically necessary reason for extended stays. Additionally, the impact on managed care organizations regarding the financial implications of the imposed penalties could create friction within the healthcare delivery system. Striking a balance between patient care standards and the operational realities of healthcare administration remains a crucial focus as discussions around the bill progress.