Texas House Bill HB942

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the use of clinical decision support software and laboratory benefits management programs in connection with the provision of clinical laboratory services to certain managed care plan enrollees.

Impact

The enactment of HB 942 would significantly affect the landscape of managed care operations. By prohibiting requirements that could limit the decision-making of healthcare providers, the bill intends to uphold the integrity of clinical judgments based on individual patient needs rather than operational efficiencies. The legislation emphasizes that decisions for patient care must adhere to peer-reviewed medical practices, thus promoting adherence to clinical guidelines and potentially improving health outcomes for enrollees in managed care plans.

Summary

House Bill 942 seeks to regulate the use of clinical decision support software and laboratory benefits management programs within the state of Texas, specifically in connection with clinical laboratory services for enrollees of managed care plans. The bill stipulates that managed care plan issuers cannot require physicians or healthcare providers to utilize such software or programs when ordering clinical laboratory services, thereby granting healthcare providers more autonomy in their decision-making process. This measure aims to foster better patient care by ensuring that clinical decisions are not overly influenced by administrative protocols tied to managed care plans.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding HB 942 is the appropriate balance between necessary oversight for patient safety and the administrative efficiency that managed care plans strive for. Supporters of the bill argue that empowering healthcare providers to make decisions independent of software limitations is essential for ensuring quality care, while opponents may express concern over potential lapses in oversight or quality control that automated systems can sometimes enhance. The bill's approach to limit influence from lab management programs and decision support software reflects a growing debate on the best methodologies to maintain patient-centered care within an increasingly automated healthcare environment.