Texas Senate Bill SB203

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 11/10/08
• Out of Senate Committee: 4/6/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/16/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/22/09
• Voted on by House: 5/27/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Report Pass: 5/20/09
• Enrolled: 5/29/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to health care-associated infections and preventable adverse events in certain health care facilities.

Impact

The enactment of SB203 will likely lead to an increase in data collected on MRSA infections within Texas hospitals. Hospitals will be required to monitor and report these infections more rigorously, which may prompt them to enhance their infection control protocols. The bill's implications are significant for public health as it has the potential to decrease the prevalence of healthcare-associated infections, thereby improving patient outcomes and hospital safety ratings.

Summary

Senate Bill 203 aims to enhance the reporting requirements for health care-associated infections in Texas hospitals, specifically focusing on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections. The bill amends Section 98.103(c) of the Health and Safety Code to mandate that general hospitals report the incidence of MRSA infections occurring in any unit of the hospital. This move is designed to increase transparency and accountability in hospital infection control practices and ultimately improve patient safety.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB203 may include concerns from healthcare providers regarding the burden of additional reporting requirements and the possible implications for hospital operations. While supporters of the bill emphasize its importance for patient safety and the need to address MRSA infections adequately, opponents might argue about the resource allocation required to comply with these new mandates. Discussions may also revolve around how this reporting can affect hospital ratings and insurance reimbursements based on infection rates.