Missouri Senate Bill SB1011

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/5/22
• Refer: 3/1/22

Caption

Requires registration with the Department of Health and Senior Services for supplemental health care services agencies

Impact

By mandating annual registration, the bill intends to enhance statewide accountability within the health care field. Agencies will need to prove their compliance with various operational standards, including business transparency around ownership and operational practices. This move seeks to mitigate risks associated with fraudulent practices in supplying health care personnel, contributing to overall quality and reliability within the sector.

Summary

Senate Bill 1011 requires supplemental health care services agencies to register with the Department of Health and Senior Services. The legislation aims to improve oversight and enforce standards within agencies that provide temporary employment for health care personnel in licensed health care facilities. Specifically, the bill adds several sections to Chapter 198 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, detailing requirements for registration, compliance, and penalties for noncompliance.

Contention

While the bill addresses critical issues of fraud and operational oversight, it may raise concerns from local agencies regarding the feasibility of compliance costs and administrative burdens associated with the annual registration. Certain stakeholders could argue that these requirements may disproportionately affect smaller agencies, potentially leading to reduced competition in the healthcare employment market.

Notable_points

The legislation outlines strict penalties for agencies that bill healthcare facilities beyond established limits, including fines that could equal double the amount billed in excess of maximum rates. This specific provision aims to prevent billing abuses, reinforcing the bill's commitment to fairness and ethical conduct within the healthcare services sector.