Tennessee House Bill HB0966

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Failed: 3/7/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 33; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to certificates of need.

Impact

The implications of HB0966 could lead to significant changes in how healthcare facilities operate within the state. By allowing exemptions from the CON requirements under specific circumstances, the bill may facilitate a quicker and more flexible response to healthcare demands, particularly in areas where there is deemed to be adequate patient population as outlined by the legislative criteria. This could improve access to critical services in both urban and rural settings, particularly benefiting populations who are uninsured or underinsured.

Summary

House Bill 0966 seeks to amend multiple sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning the Certificate of Need (CON) program. This legislation aims to modify existing regulations by eliminating some current requirements for obtaining a certificate of need prior to initiating certain healthcare services, such as burn units and organ transplantation programs. The bill introduces conditions under which exemptions can be granted for the relocation of existing healthcare services, prioritizing the maintenance of access for underserved populations. By streamlining the approval process, the bill intends to enhance the delivery of healthcare services in Tennessee.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB0966 is mixed. Proponents view this bill positively as it aims to reduce bureaucratic hurdles, thereby potentially increasing the availability of needed services in a more efficient manner. They argue that the CON process sometimes acts as a barrier that limits competition and access to care. However, opponents express concerns about the potential risks associated with diminishing regulatory oversight, cautioning that it could lead to unplanned healthcare service relocations, which might not adequately consider the needs of vulnerable populations.

Contention

Critics of HB0966 raise important questions regarding the balance between expanding access to care and ensuring essential protections for patients. The debate centers around the adequacy of safeguards in place to ensure that by easing restrictions, there will be no adverse effects on patient access, particularly for historically marginalized groups. The proposed changes to the exemption process could lead to conflicts over local healthcare needs and the priorities set by the commission overseeing CON approvals.