Texas House Bill HCR88

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Introduced: 3/9/09
• Refer: 3/16/09
• Report Pass: 3/24/09
• Refer: 4/27/09
• Report Pass: 5/5/09
• Enrolled: 5/13/09
• Passed: 5/20/09

Caption

Directing the Texas Department of State Health Services and the Texas Education Agency to educate parents of adolescent Texans regarding the importance of adolescents' receiving regular physical exams and updated immunizations.

Impact

The resolution calls for action from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to educate parents about the significance of adolescent health and the role of preventive care. The DSHS is tasked with the implementation of programs that promote adolescent health, while the TEA will help disseminate information regarding healthy practices in schools. This initiative seeks to ensure that parents are well-informed about the necessity of routine health check-ups and vaccinations, potentially increasing the rates of adolescent healthcare utilization in Texas.

Summary

HCR88, a House Concurrent Resolution, emphasizes the importance of regular physical exams and updated immunizations for adolescents in Texas. The resolution points out the critical phase of adolescence as a time where individuals often neglect regular health screenings and treatments, which could significantly enhance both their current and future health outcomes. Various health dangers, including motor vehicle crashes and substance abuse, are highlighted as pressing issues impacting adolescents. Additionally, the resolution identifies environmental factors such as family dynamics, peer pressure, and the educational environment that contribute to these health challenges.

Contention

While the resolution appears to have broad support for its intent to improve adolescent health outcomes, the discourse surrounding such public health initiatives often includes challenges related to resource allocation and the execution of educational programs across diverse communities. Some stakeholders may question how effectively the state agencies can reach all parents and ensure that health services are accessible and culturally appropriate. Additionally, concerns may arise regarding the underlying health disparities that affect different demographic groups, which could impact the overall effectiveness of the proposed educational efforts.