Texas Senate Bill SB7

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to improving the delivery and quality of certain health and human services, including the delivery and quality of Medicaid acute care services and long-term services and supports.

Impact

The legislation will modernize the existing Medicaid infrastructure by expanding managed care options and implementing quality-based measures for service providers. This means that individuals receiving services will have a more streamlined experience, with better coordination among various health services. Importantly, the bill emphasizes the need for transparency in service delivery, which may lead to improved patient outcomes and increased accountability for service providers. It also mandates the establishment of a comprehensive resource allocation strategy tailored to the functional needs of individuals with disabilities, ensuring their specific needs are met.

Summary

Senate Bill 7 aims to enhance the delivery and quality of Medicaid services relating to acute care and long-term support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Texas. The bill focuses on the redesign of the service delivery system to integrate these services more effectively, ensuring that recipients receive the necessary support to thrive in community settings. Key provisions include the establishment of quality-based payment systems and improved assessment processes for determining service needs.

Contention

While there is broad support for better integration of services, there are concerns about the feasibility of the transition to a managed care model, particularly for individuals who have complex needs. Critics may argue that the shift could lead to reduced access to services or that the quality of care may suffer during the transition. Additionally, balancing cost-effectiveness with the obligation to provide adequate support for some of the most vulnerable populations presents a significant challenge that stakeholders will need to navigate. The bill attempts to address this by requiring the Health and Human Services Commission to actively seek federal waivers and authorizations to facilitate these changes.