Relating to an emergency management plan for certain health care facilities.
Impact
The legislation is designed to enhance the preparedness of health care facilities in Texas against potential disasters, thereby aiming to safeguard residents. By obligating these facilities to have solid emergency management strategies, the state aims to mitigate risks associated with disasters through structured approaches, contributing to overall public health and safety. This could potentially lead to improved responses to emergencies, such as hurricanes or other unforeseen crises, ultimately protecting vulnerable populations residing in these institutions.
Summary
House Bill 2248 mandates that certain health care facilities develop and maintain comprehensive emergency management plans aimed at ensuring the safety of residents during disasters. This bill amends the Texas Government and Health and Safety Codes, establishing specific requirements for disaster mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery. All institutions must prepare a plan that includes protocols for evacuation as well as sheltering residents during emergencies. Each facility is also required to submit these plans for approval to the Texas division of emergency management and the respective local authorities.
Contention
While many stakeholders support the intent behind HB 2248, concerns may arise regarding the feasibility of implementing such extensive emergency management plans across all health care facilities, particularly smaller or underfunded institutions. Critics of the bill might argue that the financial and human resource burden placed on these facilities could be overwhelming. Furthermore, balancing the state’s regulatory oversight while ensuring that facilities remain flexible and responsive to unique local needs could be a point of contention among various health care advocates and legislative members.
Relating to the establishment of the state health benefit plan reimbursement review board and the reimbursement for health care services or supplies provided under certain state-funded health benefit plans.
Relating to an application for emergency detention, procedures regarding court-ordered mental health services, and certain rights of patients admitted to private mental hospitals and certain other mental health facilities.
Relating to health care transparency, including advertising, identification, and notice requirements for certain health facilities and health professionals; authorizing administrative and civil penalties.
Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.