Relating to death records maintained by the vital statistics unit of the Department of State Health Services and provided to certain hospitals.
If enacted, SB1467 would introduce specific requirements related to the information that hospitals must be provided concerning deceased individuals. The new protocols outlined by the bill will ensure that each hospital receives critical data for every death certificate filed, including the deceased's county of residence, date of birth, and full name. This updated process could significantly enhance the operational efficiency of hospitals, particularly in the realm of data handling and compliance with state health requirements.
SB1467 is a legislative proposal aimed at reforming the way death records are maintained and disseminated by the Texas Department of State Health Services. Specifically, the bill mandates the implementation of an efficient procedure for providing death information to licensed hospitals in Texas. This change is primarily designed to support hospitals in their participation in the Medicaid managed care program. By streamlining the process, the state hopes to enhance the coordination and management of health care services provided to deceased individuals, especially in regard to processing claims and benefits linked to Medicaid services.
While the bill has the intent of improving service delivery within the healthcare system, it may raise concerns among advocates for privacy and data protection. The centralized handling of sensitive information, such as death records, may attract scrutiny regarding how such data is safeguarded and whether there are adequate measures in place to prevent misuse. Additionally, the requirement for state agencies to determine if a federal waiver is needed before implementing certain provisions introduces a layer of complexity that could delay the rollout of the bill's mandates.
SB1467 stipulates that should a federal waiver or authorization be required for any of its provisions, the relevant state agency is mandated to request it. This clause establishes a framework for flexibility, allowing the state to adapt its implementation plans based on federal regulatory dynamics. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, providing time for necessary adjustments and stakeholder preparation for the upcoming changes.
Health And Safety Code
Government Code