Texas Senate Bill SB1291

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/9/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/23/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/14/09
• Voted on by House: 5/19/09
• Governor Action: 5/27/09
• Enrolled: 5/19/09
• Passed: 5/27/09

Caption

Relating to access to certain counselors and therapists.

Impact

This legislation will specifically impact Texas insurance policies or contracts that are delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed on or after January 1, 2010. For those existing policies issued prior to this date, the previous regulations will continue to govern. By facilitating direct access to marriage and family therapists, this bill is anticipated to improve patient outcomes and make mental health resources more accessible to Texas residents. It acknowledges the importance of mental health and the role of licensed practitioners in providing these essential services.

Summary

Senate Bill 1291 aims to enhance access to mental health services by allowing insured individuals the right to select a marriage and family therapist for covered services under their health insurance policies. The bill amends the Texas Insurance Code to ensure that individuals can receive therapy services directly, rather than being mandated to obtain a referral from a physician. The goal is to streamline access to mental health care, addressing rising concerns about the availability of qualified mental health professionals and the barriers that patients face when trying to access necessary therapies.

Contention

While the bill is primarily seen as a positive step towards better access to mental health care, there may be points of contention regarding how insurance providers adjust their policies to accommodate these changes. Concerns could arise around the quality of care and the qualifications of practitioners selected directly by insured individuals. Additionally, there is an ongoing debate about ensuring that all mental health practitioners have adequate training and resources to provide quality care without the oversight that a physician's recommendation would typically entail. Such changes could provoke discussions about the standards of practice in mental health care services throughout the state.