Tennessee House Bill HB0469

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23
• Refer: 2/1/23
• Refer: 3/21/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 56 and Title 63, relative to telehealth.

Impact

The bill is significant as it seeks to enhance healthcare access by allowing volunteer healthcare services to be provided by out-of-state professionals. This could potentially improve the availability of needed medical expertise for individuals who may otherwise lack access due to geographical or financial constraints. By permitting volunteers to provide services in free clinics, the bill aims to bridge gaps in care for vulnerable populations, ultimately aiming to improve health outcomes across the state.

Summary

House Bill 0469 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Sections 56 and 63, to expand telehealth services in the state. The primary focus of this bill is to facilitate the practice of telehealth by out-of-state healthcare providers under certain conditions. This includes provisions for licensed practitioners from other states to provide services on a volunteer basis at free clinics and to patients who cannot access such services within Tennessee. The legislation emphasizes the importance of ensuring healthcare access for residents in underserved areas.

Conclusion

In summary, HB0469 represents a strategic step toward enhancing telehealth access in Tennessee, reflecting a broader trend in healthcare policy focused on leveraging technology to meet the needs of patients. Nevertheless, with these advancements come necessary discussions regarding the regulatory frameworks that govern medical practice across state lines, ensuring that patient safety and quality of care remains a central focus.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB0469 may include concerns about patient safety and the quality of care provided by out-of-state providers who may not be familiar with Tennessee's healthcare regulations. Stakeholders might question whether the current licensing and oversight mechanisms are adequate to ensure that individuals receiving telehealth services are adequately protected. Additionally, there may be debates regarding the adequacy of existing healthcare resources and whether expanding telehealth in this manner could inadvertently open the door to potential misuse or over-reliance on out-of-state practitioners.