Tennessee House Bill HB0762

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/2/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 71, relative to payment for adult day care services.

Impact

The introduction of HB 0762 will have significant implications for Tennessee's healthcare system, particularly in how adult day care services are funded. By shifting reimbursement policies to focus on authorized services instead of attendance, the bill addresses issues of unpredictability in funding, potentially allowing providers to maintain staffing and service levels more effectively. This legislative change is expected to improve service accessibility for families relying on adult day care services, fostering a more reliable support system for elderly and disabled individuals.

Summary

House Bill 0762 aims to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 71, concerning the reimbursement policies for providers of adult day care services. The bill stipulates that the bureau of TennCare is to ensure that these providers are compensated based on authorized service amounts, rather than the attendance of the eligible adult. This change is designed to enhance the stability of funding for adult day care services, eliminating the penalties associated with absenteeism, which can negatively impact service providers and their ability to deliver consistent care.

Sentiment

Discussion surrounding HB 0762 has generally been positive, particularly among advocates for elderly and dependent care services. Many stakeholders recognize the necessity of ensuring consistent funding for these vital services, viewing the bill as a necessary reform to enhance service quality and provider sustainability. However, concerns may arise from discussions about the long-term financial implications for the state’s budget and TennCare funding, signaling a need for careful monitoring and management of the policy's implementation.

Contention

While the overall sentiment is supportive, notable points of contention include how the bill might impact the overall funding structure of TennCare and whether it creates a precedent for similar reimbursement policies in other health service areas. Critics may argue that allowing non-attendance-based reimbursements could lead to increased financial burdens on the state's healthcare system if not managed prudently. Careful evaluation of provider impacts and state budget implications will be crucial as the bill progresses.