Texas House Bill HB3596

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the Health and Human Services Commission's strategy for managing audit resources, including procedures for auditing and collecting payments from Medicaid managed care organizations.

Impact

The implementation of HB 3596 is poised to lead to more robust financial oversight of Medicaid managed care organizations. By establishing a more defined selection process for audits and prioritizing organizations based on risk, the HHSC aims to address financial mismanagement and compliance issues head-on. This bill's provisions are likely to enhance the reliability of the financial information reported by these organizations and improve overall program integrity, ultimately benefiting Medicaid recipients through better service quality.

Summary

House Bill 3596 seeks to enhance the Health and Human Services Commission's (HHSC) strategies for managing audit resources related to Medicaid managed care organizations. The bill outlines a comprehensive framework for auditing procedures and the collection of payments, ensuring accountability and proper financial management within the Medicaid program. The legislation emphasizes the use of external quality reviews and agreed-upon procedures to scrutinize the performance of managed care organizations more effectively, promoting greater transparency in financial dealings and service delivery.

Contention

Discussion around HB 3596 may touch upon concerns regarding the increased compliance burden placed on managed care organizations and the implications of enhanced auditing measures. Proponents argue that stronger oversight is necessary to prevent fraud and ensure that funds are utilized appropriately, while opponents might raise worries about how these additional requirements could impact service delivery and operational efficiency. Balancing strict oversight with the need for efficient service provision will be a focal point of debate as the bill moves forward.