Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1990

Caption

Relating to access to certain psychological associates under certain health benefit plans.

Impact

The changes introduced by HB1990 specifically apply to insurance policies that are delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed on or after January 1, 2020. By mandating this effective date, existing policies that have not reached renewal will continue to operate under the prior legal framework. This provision allows for a gradual implementation of the new regulations without immediately disrupting ongoing insurance agreements. The modification in the definition recognizes the important role of psychological associates in mental health treatment and clarifies their relationship with supervising licensed psychologists, which could impact the availability and delivery of psychological services in insured settings.

Summary

House Bill 1990 addresses the access to certain psychological associates under specified health benefit plans in Texas. It aims to amend the definition of 'psychological associate' to clarify the role of individuals licensed as psychological associates. The bill stipulates that a psychological associate is one who practices under the supervision of a licensed psychologist, enhancing clarity in the classification and supervision requirements for these professionals. By explicitly defining their role, the bill seeks to streamline access to mental health services within the state’s health benefit structures.

Contention

While the bill generally seeks to improve access to mental health care through clearer definitions, it may face scrutiny regarding how effectively it integrates psychological associates into the broader mental health care delivery system. One point of contention could be whether the oversight requirements for psychological associates adequately address the needs of patients while ensuring quality care standards. Stakeholders including mental health advocates and insurance providers may express differing views on the implications of this amendment, particularly concerning the supervision and independence of psychological associates.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1322

Relating to coordination of vision and eye care benefits under certain health benefit plans and vision benefit plans.

TX SB861

Relating to coordination of vision and eye care benefits under certain health benefit plans and vision benefit plans.

TX HB389

Relating to health benefit coverage for certain fertility preservation services under certain health benefit plans.

TX SB447

Relating to health benefit coverage for certain fertility preservation services under certain health benefit plans.

TX SB1277

Relating to health benefit coverage for certain fertility preservation services under certain health benefit plans.

TX HB826

Relating to modification of certain prescription drug benefits and coverage offered by certain health benefit plans.

TX SB1221

Relating to modification of certain prescription drug benefits and coverage offered by certain health benefit plans.

TX HB757

Relating to preauthorization of certain benefits by certain health benefit plan issuers.

TX HB687

Relating to the enrollment period for newborns under certain employer health benefit plans.

TX HB3948

Relating to coverage for childhood screening, diagnosis, and treatment for dyslexia under certain health benefit plans.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.