Texas House Bill HB2359

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to health care compensation under certain health benefit or managed care plans.

Impact

The bill introduces new requirements for health care contracts, mandating that they include clear disclosure forms outlining payment methodologies and compensation terms. These forms will help healthcare providers better understand their compensation structures and ensure that they are not discriminated against based on their profession. This not only supports healthcare practitioners in negotiating more equitable terms but also aims to enhance services provided to patients by ensuring a wider array of options when it comes to eye care professionals.

Summary

House Bill 2359 is aimed at enhancing the transparency and fairness of compensation practices in the context of health benefit and managed care plans within Texas. It amends existing provisions within the Insurance Code to prevent discrimination against specific healthcare practitioners, namely optometrists, therapeutic optometrists, and ophthalmologists. By prohibiting restrictions on plan participants concerning their choice of healthcare provider, the bill effectively seeks to improve patient access to vision services and ensure equitable treatment across healthcare professions.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB 2359 is the potential pushback from managed care organizations that may feel constrained by the additional regulations. Critics may argue that such measures could lead to increased costs for health plans and could complicate administrative processes. Conversely, proponents assert that the increased transparency and non-discriminatory practices will ultimately benefit the healthcare system and provide better outcomes for patients seeking vision care.