Texas House Bill HB1983

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/1/11
• Out of House Committee: 4/27/11
• Voted on by House: 5/6/11
• Refer: 3/7/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/13/11
• Report Pass: 4/21/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/19/11
• Engrossed: 5/6/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 5/9/11
• Report Pass: 5/13/11
• Enrolled: 5/21/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to certain childbirths occurring before the 39th week of gestation.

Impact

If enacted, HB1983 would compel hospitals providing obstetrical services to collaborate with physicians in developing strategies that ensure a reduction in preterm induced deliveries and cesarean sections. The bill emphasizes a preventative approach focused on evidence-based practices and coordination between healthcare providers. This shift in focus could positively impact maternal and infant health outcomes, potentially resulting in fewer complications associated with premature births and lowering hospitalization rates for infants requiring intensive care.

Summary

House Bill 1983 aims to address the issue of elective or nonmedically indicated deliveries occurring before the 39th week of gestation, specifically targeting induced deliveries and cesarean sections in hospitals. The bill mandates that the Health and Human Services Commission implement evidence-based quality initiatives designed to reduce such deliveries for individuals enrolled in the state's medical assistance program. The overarching goal is to improve health outcomes for mothers and infants while simultaneously achieving cost savings in healthcare delivery.

Contention

Discussion surrounding HB1983 may highlight concerns related to the balance between medical necessity and patient choice, as well as the implications of restricting certain childbirth practices. Critics of the bill might argue that while reducing nonmedically indicated procedures is beneficial, it could also lead to challenges in patient autonomy and informed decision-making. Moreover, stakeholders in the healthcare sector will need to carefully assess how these new guidelines will be implemented in practice, ensuring they are both effective and respectful of individual patient needs.