Tennessee House Bill HB1972

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 33; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to health care.

Impact

The passage of HB 1972 could significantly influence the legal landscape surrounding health care provisions in Tennessee. By strengthening the ethical guidelines for genetic counselors, the bill seeks to enhance patient trust and service efficacy in genetic screenings and counseling. Stakeholders in the healthcare sector, including genetic counselors and regulatory bodies, may need to adjust their operations to comply with these newly established ethical standards. This change is anticipated to foster better health outcomes through higher professional accountability and ethical adherence.

Summary

House Bill 1972 aims to amend several sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, particularly those pertaining to health care laws. Key revisions focus on the ethical guidelines and regulatory framework governing genetic counseling services within the state. The bill emphasizes the importance of adhering to updated ethical standards as outlined by professional associations, ensuring that practitioners of genetic counseling maintain best practices in their field. The act aims to improve the quality of health care delivered through genetic services in Tennessee.

Contention

Although the bill appears to have wide support, discussions may arise regarding the specific ethical standards that are to be adopted. Some members of the health care community might express concern over the implications of enforcing uniform ethical guidelines, fearing that it may restrict the adaptability of practitioners to meet unique patient needs. Critics may argue that while the intent is to provide better care, it could inadvertently lead to bureaucratic overreach, limiting the professional discretion of genetic counselors in their practice.