Texas Senate Bill SB1191

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to certain requirements regarding Medicaid fair hearings.

Impact

By amending the Government Code, SB1191 has the potential to improve the quality of hearings in Medicaid cases by involving more qualified professionals in the process. This could lead to better decision-making and increased trust in the fairness of the hearings. The bill also mandates that data regarding each hearing be collected and made available in a searchable format, enhancing transparency and accountability in how Medicaid appeals are processed.

Summary

Senate Bill 1191 relates to the requirements for Medicaid fair hearings in Texas. The bill proposes that the hearing officers assigned to conduct these hearings must be either advanced practice registered nurses or healthcare providers with a higher level of education than an advanced practice registered nurse. This change aims to ensure that the individuals overseeing these hearings possess adequate expertise and training to handle the complexities involved in Medicaid decisions.

Contention

There may be some contention regarding the qualifications of the hearing officers, particularly around the definition of the 'higher level of education and training' that is required. Critics of such proposals often worry about the implications of limiting the types of professionals who can serve as hearing officers, as well as concerns about the overall efficiency and accessibility of the hearing process. Additionally, the bill stipulates that if a waiver or authorization from a federal agency is required, the implementation of such provisions can be delayed until it is granted, which could affect timely access to justice for recipients in disputes.