Texas Senate Bill SB1718

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the creation and maintenance of a registry of physicians co-managing patients with Licensees under Chapter 351, Occupations Code.

Impact

The legislation is expected to significantly influence the way healthcare services are delivered in Texas, particularly in coordinating care between different healthcare professionals. By creating a formal registry, the bill promotes a structured approach to documenting co-management practices, which can lead to improved patient outcomes through better coordinated treatment strategies. As healthcare becomes increasingly collaborative, this bill sets a standard that could likely encourage more interdisciplinary cooperation among healthcare providers in the state.

Summary

SB1718 seeks to establish a public registry of physicians who are engaged in the co-management of patients alongside Licensees under Chapter 351 of the Occupations Code. The registry is to be maintained by the Texas Medical Board and will include comprehensive information that can be made searchable by physician name and the county of their primary practice. This initiative aims to increase transparency in medical practices and enhance public access to information regarding physicians collaborating with other healthcare licensees.

Contention

While the bill garners support for its potential to enhance transparency and patient care, potential points of contention could arise regarding privacy concerns among medical professionals as their information becomes publicly accessible. Stakeholders, including practicing physicians and healthcare organizations, may also raise concerns about the administrative burden of maintaining accurate and up-to-date information in the registry. These challenges could provoke debate on balancing public transparency with individual privacy rights in healthcare settings.