Mississippi House Bill HB420

Mississippi 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/23
• Refer: 1/12/23
• Failed: 1/31/23

Caption

Physical therapists; require referral for services to remain valid for one year.

Impact

The legislation is expected to have a notable impact on both patients and healthcare providers in Mississippi. By extending the validity of prescriptions for physical therapy, the bill may alleviate some of the administrative burdens faced by physical therapists. This can lead to improved patient compliance with therapy regimens and potentially better health outcomes as patients may feel less pressure to secure frequent new referrals. Additionally, the provisions to ensure that Medicaid rules governing physical therapy coverage are not altered by this bill provides important continuity and clarity within the healthcare system.

Summary

House Bill 420 aims to amend the Mississippi Code of 1972, specifically sections regarding physical therapy services. The bill stipulates that prescriptions or referrals from health care providers for physical therapy must remain valid for a period of one year from the date of issuance. This change is significant in consolidating the authorization requirements surrounding physical therapy services, ensuring that individuals seeking treatment have valid documentation that supports their need for therapy. The bill highlights the transition from shorter validity periods to a more extended one, which may enhance patient access to continuous care.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB420 have raised points of contention primarily related to the implications of having a one-year validity for referrals. Some stakeholders argue that such an extension might lead to outdated prescriptions being used for patients whose conditions may have changed or evolved over the course of the year, potentially jeopardizing the quality of care. Conversely, proponents of the bill assert that a one-year period reduces the frequency of unnecessary doctor visits for referrals while maintaining sufficient oversight and safety within the practice of physical therapy.