Texas House Bill HB3128

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the return-to-play protocol for students removed from interscholastic athletic activity on the basis of a suspected concussion.

Impact

The enactment of HB3128 would enhance the ability of schools to manage concussion-related incidents more effectively. By delegating responsibilities to qualified medical professionals, schools can ensure that evaluations are conducted efficiently, thereby reducing the time a student may spend away from athletics while ensuring their safety. This amendment reinforces the commitment to student-athlete health and prioritizes their well-being following head injuries, which is becoming increasingly critical as awareness of concussion-related risks grows.

Summary

House Bill 3128 seeks to establish a clear return-to-play protocol for students who have been removed from interscholastic athletic activities due to suspected concussions. The bill amends Section 38.157 of the Education Code, introducing provisions that allow treating physicians to delegate responsibilities related to concussion evaluations to advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and physician assistants (PAs), under the supervising physician's guidance. This is intended to ensure timely assessments while maintaining medical standards based on peer-reviewed scientific evidence.

Contention

Discussion surrounding HB3128 may involve considerations of the adequacy of training and protocols established for APRNs and PAs in conducting concussion evaluations. Some stakeholders may raise concerns about the delegation of such significant health assessments to these professionals, questioning whether it could potentially compromise the quality of care students receive. Moreover, balancing the speedy return of students to play with their safety could spark debate among educators, healthcare providers, and sports organizations.