Texas House Bill HB3299

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to ensuring that health information technology used in the medical assistance and child health plan programs conforms to certain standards.

Impact

The introduction of HB 3299 is expected to bring significant changes to how health information technology is used in Texas, particularly in the context of public health programs. By requiring compliance with national standards, the bill aims to improve the safety and efficiency of clinical operations within these programs. It could lead to better interoperability between systems, facilitating improved communication and data sharing within healthcare networks, which is essential for patient safety and confidentiality.

Summary

House Bill 3299 aims to ensure that the health information technology utilized in Texas' medical assistance and child health plan programs adheres to established standards. The bill specifically mandates that the Health and Human Services Commission is responsible for ensuring the compliance of any health technology used in these programs with the standards set by the Healthcare Information Technology Standards Panel, as sponsored by the American National Standards Institute. This aligns with a broader movement towards improving the efficiency and quality of health care services through standardized practices.

Contention

While the bill seems to be driven by a desire to enhance the quality of health services, it may face scrutiny regarding its implementation. Some stakeholders might argue about potential barriers to compliance for smaller healthcare providers or those operating in more remote areas of Texas. The requirement for adherence to specific standards could necessitate upgrades to existing systems, leading to concerns about costs and the technical capabilities of various facilities. Additionally, issues could arise surrounding the necessity of waivers or authorizations from federal agencies before certain provisions can be implemented, possibly delaying the rollout of the mandated changes.