Texas House Bill HB3667

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to allowing health care providers to provide services across state lines in catastrophic circumstances.

Impact

The bill impacts state laws by introducing a new chapter to the Occupations Code that specifically addresses health and veterinary services provided in catastrophic situations. By facilitating the ability of health practitioners licensed in one state to offer their services in another state while an emergency declaration is in place, the legislation aims to foster a more coordinated and effective response to crises. This change intends to enhance the overall preparedness and responsiveness of health care systems during disasters.

Summary

House Bill 3667 seeks to allow health care providers to deliver services across state lines specifically during catastrophic circumstances. It introduces provisions for the registration of volunteer health practitioners who can operate in another state, provided they are recognized and licensed in their home state. This initiative aims to streamline the delivery of health services when emergencies, such as disasters, necessitate rapid and flexible responses beyond geographical limitations.

Contention

Notably, while the bill encourages interstate cooperation and support during emergencies, there are potential concerns regarding the regulation and accountability of volunteer health practitioners operating across state lines. Questions may arise related to the standards of care and liability for those practitioners as well as the capacity of state regulatory bodies to monitor and manage this expanded access to care. Furthermore, the provision that allows the state to limit the scope of practice for these practitioners raises issues about the adequacy of care provided and the qualifications required to ensure patient safety.