Relating to the establishment of the Veterans Recovery Program to provide certain veterans with hyperbaric oxygen treatment.
Impact
This legislation impacts existing state laws by introducing a designated treatment program specifically for veterans, which expands access to medical services tailored to their needs. It ensures that qualified veterans can receive hyperbaric oxygen therapy without incurring direct costs, as the treating facilities will be reimbursed from the veterans recovery account. By focusing on mental health and brain injury rehabilitation, HB 390 acknowledges the significant health challenges faced by veterans and aims to offer them a path to recovery through innovative treatment methods.
Summary
House Bill 390 aims to create a structured Veterans Recovery Program focused on providing hyperbaric oxygen treatment for veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injuries (TBI). The bill establishes a dedicated account known as the veterans recovery account, which will be used to fund the treatment costs and cover travel expenses for veterans who require this specialized therapy. The program's operational framework will be overseen by the Department of State Health Services under the guidance of the health commissioner, who will be responsible for approving treatment plans and ensuring compliance with strict medical protocols.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support from various advocacy groups and healthcare providers, there may be concerns regarding the adequacy of funding within the veterans recovery account and the long-term sustainability of the program. Additionally, there could be debates over the selection criteria for both the facilities providing treatment and the veterans eligible to participate in the program. Critics may raise questions about the effectiveness of hyperbaric oxygen treatment for PTSD and TBI, prompting discussions on whether other forms of therapy should be prioritized or included within the program.
Relating to the prescribing of medical cannabis for medical use to certain veterans with combat-related injuries or medical conditions and the licensing of dispensing organizations under the Texas Compassionate Use Program.
Relating to the establishment of the Alternative Mental Health Therapy Research Consortium and to certain plans, programs, and studies related to the provision of those alternative mental health therapies.
A bill for an act establishing a veterans recovery pilot program and fund for the reimbursement of expenses related to providing hyperbaric oxygen treatment to eligible veterans.(Formerly HF 479.)
A bill for an act establishing a veterans recovery pilot program and fund for the reimbursement of expenses related to providing hyperbaric oxygen treatment to eligible veterans and making appropriations.(Formerly HF 326.)
A bill for an act establishing a veterans recovery pilot program and fund for the reimbursement of expenses related to providing hyperbaric oxygen treatment to eligible veterans and making appropriations.(See HF 518.)
A bill for an act establishing a veterans recovery pilot program and fund for the reimbursement of expenses related to providing hyperbaric oxygen treatment to eligible veterans.(See HF 574.)