Texas House Bill HB2807

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the participation of an advanced practice nurse as a primary care provider for certain governmental and other health benefit plans.

Impact

The legislation emphasizes the importance of utilizing advanced practice nurses in areas where there is a shortage of practicing physicians, particularly within counties designated as medically underserved. By permitting health maintenance organizations to contract directly with advanced practice nurses, the bill aims to improve healthcare delivery in those areas lacking sufficient medical professionals. This move is critical as it seeks to enhance accessibility to primary care services, thereby potentially improving health outcomes for populations in underserved regions.

Summary

House Bill 2807 proposes significant changes to the participation of advanced practice nurses (APNs) as primary care providers within various governmental and health benefit plans in Texas. The bill amends the Government Code and the Insurance Code to establish provisions under which an advanced practice nurse, including those certified in psychiatric/mental health, can be included as primary care providers in managed care organizations. This inclusion occurs regardless of whether the supervising physician is part of the provider network, thereby streamlining the process of access to care for patients in specific regions.

Contention

A notable point of contention surrounding HB 2807 is the balance between empowering advanced practice nurses and maintaining the regulatory boundaries of medical practice. Critics might argue that allowing APNs to act as primary care providers in specific contexts could blur the lines of medical oversight and patient care quality. Moreover, while supporters herald the bill as a necessary advancement in healthcare access, some may voice concerns about the adequacy of training and experience among APNs as compared to physicians, particularly in complex health scenarios.