Relating to the licensing and regulation of military physicians who provide voluntary charity health care.
Impact
Once enacted, SB61 will permit military physicians, including those who have retired or are authorized to treat military personnel, to offer medical services in Texas, specifically in clinics that cater to indigent patients. This aligns the state's medical licensing regulations with the needs of communities that may otherwise lack adequate healthcare provisions, thereby potentially improving access to care for vulnerable populations. Additionally, the legislation positions Texas to benefit from the expertise of seasoned military healthcare providers who may wish to give back to the community through volunteer work.
Summary
Senate Bill 61 (SB61) seeks to streamline the licensing process for military physicians who wish to provide voluntary charity health care services. This bill introduces a new type of license, termed the 'military limited volunteer license,' which is expressly designed for physicians who are either currently licensed or were previously licensed in another state and are in good standing. The aim of the bill is to facilitate the delivery of healthcare services to underserved populations by allowing experienced medical practitioners to volunteer their services without the barriers typically associated with obtaining a full medical license in Texas.
Contention
A notable aspect of SB61 is its safeguarding measures to ensure that only qualified individuals receive the military limited volunteer license. The bill explicitly prohibits issuance to individuals with active investigations or disciplinary actions against their medical licenses, as well as those who have been convicted of certain criminal offenses. This provision aims to maintain the integrity and safety of medical services provided under this license, balancing the need for increased volunteer care against the need for rigorous oversight in the medical profession.
Notable_points
The bill has received broad support, as evidenced by the voting history, where it passed through the House with unanimous approval (143 yeas, 0 nays) on its third reading. The thoughtful structure of SB61, which includes both accessibility for volunteer medical services and protective oversight, has resonated positively among legislators and advocates for healthcare reform.
Relating to the regulation of physicians, the disciplinary authority of the Texas Medical Board, and the administration of the Texas Physician Health Program; increasing a criminal penalty; imposing a surcharge.
Relating to the licensing and regulation of physician graduates and the authority of an insured to select a physician graduate under the insured's health insurance policy; requiring an occupational license; authorizing fees.
Relating to the licensing and regulation of associate physicians and the authority of an insured to select an associate physician under the insured's health insurance policy; requiring an occupational license.
Relating to the regulation and voluntary licensing of reroofing contractors by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation; providing administrative and civil penalties; authorizing fees.
Relating to the regulation of certain health professionals and health facilities; providing civil and administrative penalties; creating a criminal offense.