Texas House Bill HB2474

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/5/25

Caption

Relating to a study regarding the education and retention of obstetricians and gynecologists in this state.

Impact

The study outlined in HB2474 will include an assessment of obstetrical and gynecological coursework and residency positions in Texas. It will also analyze trends over the past decade regarding the number of obstetricians and gynecologists who remain in Texas after completing their degrees versus those who relocate to other states. The findings from this examination will be pivotal in guiding potential legislative or policy changes aimed at improving the local training infrastructure and retaining skilled healthcare professionals in Texas. The results of the study are to be reported to key government officials by December 1, 2026, which could influence the future direction of healthcare education in the state.

Summary

House Bill 2474 proposes a study to evaluate the education and retention of obstetricians and gynecologists within the state of Texas. This legislative initiative highlights concerns regarding the availability of adequate obstetric and gynecological training and the subsequent retention of graduates in the workforce. In particular, the bill mandates the Texas Workforce Commission to collaborate in assessing the existing educational framework and residency opportunities available to medical students pursuing these specialties. The study aims to provide insight into whether the current educational offerings can adequately meet the healthcare needs of Texas residents, especially in light of recent changes in reproductive health legislation.

Contention

While HB2474 appears to be a constructive effort to address workforce concerns in the field of obstetrics and gynecology, it may also highlight ongoing debates surrounding healthcare access and the implications of recent judicial decisions affecting reproductive health. The requirement for the study to consider variations in student enrollment trends following significant rulings in this area suggests potential underlying tensions between educational policy, healthcare access, and legislative decisions. The bill's expiration date in 2028 indicates a finite timeline for revisiting the topic and could lead to further discussions regarding the long-term strategic planning for medical education and retention in Texas.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 61. Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
  • Section: New Section