Texas House Bill HB1398

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/27/09

Caption

Relating to a pilot project to establish a comprehensive single point of entry for long-term services and supports provided to older persons and persons with physical disabilities.

Impact

If enacted, HB1398 would influence existing state laws regarding long-term care and support services, particularly through the establishment of pilot project sites across selected geographic areas. The initiative emphasizes best practices in service delivery and prioritizes the needs of individuals who are urgent in their service requirements. Moreover, it places importance on collaboration among different service agencies, which is essential in providing a comprehensive support network. The projected outcome would likely result in better service utilization and overall satisfaction among beneficiaries.

Summary

House Bill 1398 aims to establish a pilot project for creating a comprehensive single point of entry for long-term services and supports intended for older persons and individuals with physical disabilities. This initiative focuses on streamlining access to vital services, facilitating a more efficient care process for those in need. By consolidating resources and staff in a physical location, the bill seeks to improve the navigation of long-term care systems for the aged and disabled populations. This project is significant as it lays an infrastructure aimed at enhancing service delivery while ensuring that clients receive timely access to necessary resources.

Contention

While HB1398 presents a positive step towards improving long-term care access, there may be discussions surrounding the implementation details and potential funding challenges. Critics might raise concerns over the reliance on local aging and disability resource centers to host project sites, questioning their ability and readiness. Additionally, the bill includes a provision for evaluative reports on the pilot's effectiveness, which critics could argue may delay necessary actions if findings indicate a need for restructuring or additional support. Ensuring adequate personnel and training to handle the new system will also be pivotal in overcoming potential operational hurdles.