Texas House Bill HB2539

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to improving the provision of Medicaid benefits to certain children, including children receiving benefits under the STAR Kids managed care program.

Impact

The legislation brings several changes to state laws regulating Medicaid, notably focusing on enhancing support for children with complex medical needs. It facilitates the transition of medically dependent children into managed care programs while ensuring that their rights and healthcare needs are prioritized. The bill supports a system that emphasizes continuity of care, especially as children reach adulthood and transition to other Medicaid programs. Moreover, the Health and Human Services Commission is instructed to establish standards for medical necessity and make use of standardized procedures, which may streamline Medicaid services for children.

Summary

House Bill 2539 aims to enhance the provision of Medicaid benefits specifically for children, with a focus on those enrolled in the STAR Kids managed care program. The bill introduces new measures that seek to improve accessibility and support services for these young beneficiaries. By amending various sections of the Government Code, it mandates the establishment of educational programs for families to navigate the Medicaid system, ensuring that they understand options for receiving benefits under different care models and the appeals processes associated with eligibility determinations.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 2539 include concerns regarding the effectiveness of the managed care system for children who may have specific and varied healthcare needs. Opponents argue that while the bill aims to standardize care, it may inadvertently limit the ability of healthcare providers to deliver tailored services that cater to individual child needs. Additional discussions emphasize the importance of family support in decision-making processes regarding care options, bringing forth the necessity for provider education and the implications of service changes on families dependent on Medicaid.