Relating to the liability of certain social workers who provide volunteer health care services to charitable organizations.
Impact
This bill modifies the Civil Practice and Remedies Code by clarifying the definition of volunteer healthcare providers to include several licensed professions, especially focusing on social workers. If enacted, it will change how volunteer healthcare services are conducted in Texas, offering protections against liability for those providing their expertise in charitable settings. This could increase the availability of healthcare services for underserved populations, effectively enhancing community health outcomes.
Summary
SB338 aims to provide specific provisions related to the liability of social workers who offer volunteer healthcare services to charitable organizations. The bill defines a 'volunteer health care provider' and details the qualifications needed for various healthcare professions, including social workers, to provide these services without expectation of compensation. The overarching intention of the legislation is to encourage healthcare professionals to engage in volunteer activities without the fear of facing legal repercussions associated with their professional responsibilities.
Contention
While supporters of SB338 argue that it will facilitate volunteerism among healthcare professionals by minimizing legal worries, there may be concerns about the potential implications for accountability. Critics may raise issues regarding whether such liability protections could lead to a diminished standard of care among volunteers. The balance between encouraging volunteerism and ensuring that vulnerable populations receive high-quality care remains a significant topic of discussion, potentially leaving room for further debate.
Relating to the regulation of certain health professionals and health facilities; providing civil and administrative penalties; creating a criminal offense.
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 the provision and delivery of certain health, mental health, and educational services in this state, including the delivery of those services using telecommunications or information technology.
Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.
Relating to training requirements for staff members of certain assisted living facilities that provide care to persons with Alzheimer's disease and related disorders.