Texas Senate Bill SR988

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Suspending limitations on conference committee jurisdiction, S.B. 684.

Impact

The resolution introduces a set of prohibitions against managed care plans that directly affect the operation and autonomy of optometrists. Notably, section 1451.156 of the Insurance Code outlines specific actions that managed care entities cannot undertake, including controlling the manner of practice by optometrists, employing them solely for profit-driven inducements, or restricting their choices regarding materials and service providers. This legislative change is intended to protect the integrity of optometric practices and the wellness of patients, affirming that optometrists can operate without undue influence from insurance contracts.

Summary

Senate Resolution 988 (SR988) was introduced by Taylor of Galveston during the 84th Legislature, aiming to amend provisions related to the professional conduct of optometrists and therapeutic optometrists under managed care plans. The resolution seeks to suspend certain Senate rules to facilitate exceptional review and modification of Senate Bill 684, which deals with how optometrists interact with managed care entities. The primary goal is to clarify the extent to which a managed care plan may influence the professional practices of optometrists, ensuring that these healthcare professionals maintain their judgment and practice standards independent of insurance pressures.

Contention

Discussion around SR988 highlighted concerns related to the balance between cost management in healthcare and the need for professional autonomy. Proponents argue that removing potential control by managed care plans incentivizes better patient care and professional integrity among optometrists. Critics, however, express concerns that enforcing such regulations could inadvertently limit managed care's ability to operate efficiently or provide comprehensive services under economic constraints. As such, stakeholders engage in a broader dialogue about the implications of such a bill on the overall healthcare delivery system in Texas.