Texas House Bill HB3695

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to providing access to local health departments and certain health service regional offices under the Medicaid managed care program.

Impact

The implementation of HB 3695 will require managed care organizations to actively include local health departments and regional health offices within their provider networks. The amendments to the provider access standards mean that managed care organizations will have to ensure recipients have sufficient access to a range of services—including preventive and primary care, specialty care, therapy services, and long-term support services—by involving local health entities. This approach is expected to improve the quality and availability of health services, particularly in underserved areas.

Summary

House Bill 3695 seeks to enhance access to local health departments and certain health service regional offices as part of the Medicaid managed care program in Texas. This bill amends existing legislation to specify the roles and definitions of local health departments and health service regional offices, ensuring they are integral parts of the healthcare network under Medicaid. By doing so, the bill aims to promote better access to healthcare services for Medicaid recipients within the state's managed care framework.

Contention

While supporters of HB 3695 argue that increasing the participation of local health departments in the Medicaid system will enhance healthcare delivery and accessibility, there are concerns regarding the adequacy of funding and resources allocated to these departments. Some stakeholders worry that without adequate financial support, the existing local health departments may struggle to meet the required access standards. Additionally, there may be implications for regional disparities in healthcare access depending on how effectively these local departments can service their populations under the new requirements.