Texas Senate Bill SB1149

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to an assessment and strategic review of the trauma hospital system by the Department of State Health Services.

Impact

This bill, if enacted, has significant implications for healthcare policy in Texas, particularly regarding emergency medical services. It aims to identify gaps in the trauma care system and provide recommendations on changes needed in law, funding, or public policy to ensure adequate trauma care access throughout the state. By focusing on rural and border communities, the bill seeks to address critical health disparities that may affect patient outcomes in emergency situations.

Summary

Senate Bill 1149 focuses on the assessment and strategic review of the trauma hospital system in Texas, to be conducted by the Department of State Health Services. The bill mandates a thorough examination of trauma hospital adequacy, particularly addressing deficiencies within hospital systems in rural counties and those situated along the Texas-Mexico border. A key aspect of the bill is to emphasize the accessibility to various trauma care levels, especially the highest designation of level one trauma facilities.

Contention

While the bill may seem beneficial in addressing health care provisions, it could lead to discussions around funding allocation and the prioritization of healthcare resources within the state. Concerns may arise regarding who will bear the costs of recommended changes, and whether existing local frameworks for hospital care will be disrupted as a result of state-level assessments. Additionally, the transparency and effectiveness of the review process itself may become points of contention among stakeholders.