Texas Senate Bill SB1359

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/1/23

Caption

Relating to reporting on the use of telemedicine medical services and telehealth services among participating providers of certain managed care plans.

Impact

The implementation of SB1359 will specifically affect how telehealth services are monitored and reported across Texas. It will impose new obligations on managed care organizations regarding the transparency of their provider networks and the availability of telehealth services. This could potentially lead to improved access to care for residents, especially in underserved areas where in-person healthcare might be limited. As telemedicine becomes more prevalent, this legislation may encourage healthcare providers to adopt telehealth practices, thereby promoting a broader acceptance of remote medical services.

Summary

SB1359 focuses on enhancing the reporting requirements related to the utilization of telemedicine and telehealth services among providers participating in certain managed care plans. The bill mandates that health benefit plan issuers or administrators must submit an annual report detailing whether participating providers deliver services primarily in-person or through telehealth channels. By incorporating telemedicine into the reporting framework, the bill aims to better evaluate the efficacy and accessibility of remote healthcare services, especially in the context of an increasingly digital healthcare landscape.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1359 is generally positive, especially among healthcare advocates who view telehealth as critical in improving healthcare access. Proponents argue that telehealth services can enhance patient convenience and reduce the burden on traditional healthcare facilities. However, there may be critiques regarding the adequacy of reporting structures and data collection, raising concerns about the reliability and comprehensiveness of the information gathered under the new requirements. Balancing regulatory oversight with the need for an agile healthcare system will be an essential consideration as the bill moves forward.

Contention

While the bill is largely supported for its potential to enhance telemedicine's role in healthcare delivery, it may face opposition from entities concerned about compliance burdens and administrative complexities for health plans. Questions may arise regarding how data gathered through these reports will be utilized and whether it will truly reflect the quality of telehealth services. Furthermore, stakeholders may debate the implications of increased oversight on provider autonomy and patient choice, as the healthcare landscape continues to evolve rapidly in response to technological advancements.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Occupations Code

• Chapter 1. General Provisions
  • Section: New Section

Insurance Code

• Chapter 843. Health Maintenance Organizations
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 1301. Preferred Provider Benefit Plans
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 1551. Texas Employees Group Benefits Act
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 1575. Texas Public School Employees Group Benefits Program
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 1579. Texas School Employees Uniform Group Health Coverage
  • Section: New Section