Relating to the Health and Human Services Commission's procurement and oversight of managed care organization contracts serving individuals in Texas Medicaid with serious mental illness.
The bill mandates the development of performance metrics to hold managed care companies accountable for the care of enrollees with serious mental illness. These metrics could encompass various aspects such as integrated care, emergency department diversion, and medication adherence. The ultimate goal is to measure and demonstrate improved health outcomes, integration of care, and cost control against established baseline measures for individuals with serious mental illness, thereby fostering an environment of continuous quality improvement.
Senate Bill 2128 addresses the procurement and oversight processes of managed care organization contracts that serve individuals in Texas Medicaid with serious mental illness. The bill aims to enhance administrative efficiency and value for the state by directing the Health and Human Services Commission to evaluate and strengthen its current procurement procedures. The legislation suggests that the Commission may explore the simultaneous procurement of multiple managed care products to better serve the target demographic.
Key points of contention surrounding SB2128 may revolve around the implementation of performance metrics and the potential impact on service delivery. Critics may argue about the feasibility of simultaneously procuring multiple managed care products and whether this approach will genuinely lead to better outcomes for individuals with serious mental illness. Opponents could also raise concerns regarding how these changes might affect existing managed care contracts and the care provided to vulnerable populations.
The bill is positioned to take immediate effect upon achieving a two-thirds vote from all members elected to each house, or alternatively, it will go into effect on September 1, 2017, if that vote is not secured. This highlights the urgency and importance placed on improving mental health services in the Medicaid framework within Texas.