Texas Senate Bill SB2079

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 5/1/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/7/09

Caption

Relating to the continuing care plan for persons being discharged from state hospitals.

Impact

The bill's impact primarily lies in establishing a more systematic approach to discharge planning from state hospitals. By mandating that the local mental health authority is consulted, the aim is to better facilitate the ongoing care and support for discharged individuals. This could potentially reduce the rates of readmission to mental health facilities and provide a safety net for patients, thereby improving overall community mental health outcomes.

Summary

SB2079 is a legislative proposal aimed at enhancing the discharge processes for individuals leaving state hospitals. The bill amends Section 574.081 of the Health and Safety Code, requiring that the physician prepare a continuing care plan that includes consultation with the patient as well as the local mental health authority prior to discharge. This consultation is aimed at addressing the patient's needs and coordinating their transportation post-discharge, ensuring a smoother transition back into the community.

Conclusion

Overall, SB2079 seeks to bridge the gap between state hospitals and local support systems, ensuring that discharged patients have a structured care plan in place. As the bill progresses, ongoing discussions and evaluations will be critical to its successful implementation within the healthcare infrastructure.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding SB2079 could revolve around the requirement that local mental health authorities partake in the planning process for state hospital discharges. While proponents may argue that this leads to improved care and more individualized plans, opponents might express concerns about the capacity and resources of local authorities to manage these additional responsibilities. Moreover, the bill clarifies that local mental health authorities are not obliged to engage with patients discharged from private facilities, which may raise discussions about the equity of care.