Texas House Bill HB473

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the provision under the medical assistance program of certain medications to children younger than five years of age.

Impact

The legislation intends to enhance the safety and oversight of medication prescribed to very young children, who are particularly vulnerable to the side effects of powerful drugs. By implementing prior authorization, the bill seeks to reduce the risk of inappropriate prescriptions and ensure that proper medical standards are maintained. This could also lead to an increase in the oversight of managed care organizations in their prescription practices, ultimately benefiting pediatric healthcare and ensuring better outcomes for children.

Summary

House Bill 473 addresses the administration of certain medications under the medical assistance program, primarily focusing on the prescription of antipsychotic or neuroleptic medications to children younger than five years old. The bill mandates that any managed care organization providing prescription drug benefits under Medicaid must require prior authorization before administering these types of medications to young children. This requirement is aimed at ensuring that such serious medications are provided only under strict criteria, including the child's diagnosis and previous responses to the medication.

Contention

While proponents of HB 473 argue that it provides a necessary safeguard against the unnecessary use of powerful medications in vulnerable populations, critics may express concern about potential delays in accessing necessary medications. Some opponents could argue that additional layers of authorization can complicate and prolong the process of obtaining medications that are crucial for treating specific mental health conditions in young children. Balancing the need for caution with the need for timely healthcare intervention remains a critical discussion point surrounding this bill.