Texas House Bill HB1016

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to eligibility determinations for the STAR+PLUS home and community based services (HCBS) program.

Impact

The implementation of HB1016 has the potential to streamline and expedite the eligibility determination process for services under the STAR+PLUS program. By shortening the waiting times for applicants, the bill aims to improve the overall accessibility of essential home and community-based services to individuals with disabilities and other qualifying entities. This change is particularly important for ensuring that beneficiaries receive timely support, which can significantly impact their quality of life and well-being.

Summary

House Bill 1016 addresses the eligibility determinations for the STAR+PLUS home and community based services (HCBS) program in Texas. Specifically, the bill mandates that the Medicaid eligibility for applicants must be determined within a set timeframe: 20 days for general applicants and 45 days for applicants with disabilities. This is a significant step towards ensuring timely access to necessary services for vulnerable populations, thereby enhancing the efficiency of the application process within the healthcare system.

Contention

While supporters of the bill highlight the improved timelines as a critical advancement for Medicaid recipients, there may be concerns regarding the capacity of managed care organizations to comply with the new requirements. Challenges could arise in ensuring that proper assessments and individual service plans are completed within the mandated timeframes, which might lead to pressure on these entities. As a result, discussions among stakeholders may focus on the adequacy of resources available to manage these time-sensitive assessments effectively.