Texas House Bill HB1543

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to access to records that pertain to the testing for, and fitting and dispensing of, hearing instruments.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1543 will provide clients with greater access to their health records, specifically concerning hearing instruments. This aligns with broader efforts to increase patient rights and access to medical information within the healthcare system. By allowing clients to obtain their records with a signed, written request, the bill makes a significant move towards enhancing patient autonomy and ensuring that individuals are more informed about their healthcare options.

Summary

House Bill 1543, introduced by Burkett and sponsored by Watson, addresses the rights of clients in accessing their records related to the testing, fitting, and dispensing of hearing instruments. This bill amends the Occupations Code by adding provisions that grant clients the ability to request a copy of their records directly from licensed practitioners. This change is aimed at ensuring that clients have more control over their personal information and promoting transparency in the fitting and dispensing of hearing aids.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding HB 1543 appears to be generally positive among health advocates and professionals in the field of audiology. Supporters of the bill believe that giving clients the right to access their records will improve client-provider relationships and patient satisfaction. However, there may be concerns from some practitioners about the additional administrative burden this could impose on their practices.

Contention

While HB 1543 seems to have few outright opponents, one notable point of contention could be the implications of implementing the record access requirement. Practitioners may argue about the potential challenges related to maintaining confidentiality and the operational logistics associated with handling record requests. The bill has been structured to ensure that clients can easily obtain their records, but the practicalities of executing this in real-world settings may lead to discussions about best practices and protocols.