AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 71-5-148, relative to the health care safety net for uninsured.
Impact
The bill is expected to significantly improve access to healthcare services for uninsured residents by bolstering existing community healthcare structures. By encouraging the sustainability of grassroots healthcare providers, SB1883 could reduce the financial burden on emergency services and improve health outcomes among vulnerable populations. The adjustment of financial support methods aims to ensure that these facilities can continue to provide necessary services without the barrier of high costs for uninsured patients.
Summary
Senate Bill 1883 aims to enhance the healthcare safety net for uninsured individuals in Tennessee. The bill specifically amends Section 71-5-148 of the Tennessee Code Annotated to provide support for community-based healthcare facilities and practices. This includes not-for-profit clinics, faith-based institutions, community mental health agencies, federally qualified health centers, and rural health clinics. The support will be provided through a sliding fee scale payment model, making healthcare services more accessible to the uninsured population.
Contention
While the bill has the potential to benefit many individuals in need of healthcare services, it may not be without contention. Discussions around its implementation could center on potential funding allocations and the distribution of resources among various community healthcare entities. Stakeholders might express differing opinions on which types of facilities should receive support and how the sliding fee scale will be adapted to ensure equitable access across diverse communities. Overall, the effectiveness of SB1883 will depend on careful consideration of these aspects.