Tennessee House Bill HB0729

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/27/23
• Refer: 2/1/23
• Refer: 2/28/23
• Refer: 3/8/23
• Chaptered: 4/18/23
• Passed: 4/18/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 63, Chapter 17, Part 1, relative to the practice of speech language pathology.

Impact

The proposed amendments could significantly impact how speech language pathologists practice in Tennessee. By establishing mandatory emergency protocols, the bill aims to elevate the standards of care and prevent potential medical mishaps. This may lead to increased compliance costs for practitioners as they implement these new protocols, but it could ultimately enhance patient safety within the field by ensuring that medical professionals are readily available during procedures involving endoscopes.

Summary

House Bill 0729 seeks to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 63, Chapter 17, Part 1, which governs the practice of speech language pathology. The bill focuses on the inclusion of specific emergency backup protocols for settings where speech-language pathologists use an endoscope for procedures. It emphasizes the importance of having a physician available, either physically or through telehealth, to ensure patient safety in cases of medical emergencies during such procedures.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 0729 appears to be largely supportive among healthcare professionals who recognize the necessity of ensuring patient safety in complex medical procedures. However, some may express concerns regarding the implications of these requirements on the operational aspect of speech-language pathology practices, possibly viewing it as an additional regulatory burden. Yet, the overall sentiment acknowledges the need for higher safety standards in medical procedures.

Contention

While there seems to be a consensus on the need for improved safety protocols in medical practices, the contention lies in the balance of regulatory oversight versus the operational flexibility of speech language pathologists. Some critics may argue that the added regulations could complicate practice operations or impose additional financial burdens, while supporters emphasize that ensuring physician availability during procedures is crucial for patient safety.