Texas House Bill HB3342

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the creation and operation of a health care quality provider participation program; authorizing an administrative penalty.

Impact

If enacted, HB3342 will significantly impact state law relating to long-term care facilities by amending the Health and Safety Code to introduce a new quality provider participation framework. This framework will allow for adjustments in Medicaid reimbursement rates based on the successful attainment of quality metrics, integrating quality care directly with funding. Facilities that demonstrate excellence will be recognized and compensated accordingly, which could lead to overall improvements in service provision and care standards within the state's nursing homes.

Summary

House Bill 3342 proposes the creation and operation of a health care quality provider participation program aimed at improving the quality of care in nursing facilities across Texas. This bill enables the Health and Human Services Commission to administer a program that provides financial incentives to facilities meeting specified quality standards. The program is funded through payments collected from certain nursing facilities, which will be matched by federal funds to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates. The initiative is designed to enhance the quality of life for residents receiving care and to support the operational needs of facilities caring for non-Medicare residents.

Contention

Notably, there are potential points of contention surrounding the funding and implementation of this program. Critics may question the financial implications for nursing facilities, especially regarding the requirement to collect quality provider participation payments without passing those costs onto residents. Moreover, concerns could be raised about the adequacy and fairness of the quality metrics used to determine eligibility for increased reimbursement, as well as the potential for disparities in funding distribution among facilities based on their ability to meet these new standards.