Texas Senate Bill SB2225

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to early childhood intervention and rehabilitative and habilitative services.

Impact

The legislation modifies various sections of the Human Resources and Insurance Codes, emphasizing the importance of rehabilitative and habilitative therapies for children and reinforcing the requirement for health benefit plans to cover these services adequately. It seeks to remove limits on coverage amounts and durations for rehabilitative services, thereby reducing financial constraints for families seeking support for their children. This initiative is expected to enhance service delivery models, particularly by focusing on compliance with Medicaid reimbursement rates, which could further incentivize providers to participate in early intervention programs.

Summary

SB2225 focuses on improving early childhood intervention and rehabilitative services in Texas. The bill mandates that managed care organizations providing health services under programs for vulnerable children cannot require prior authorization for early childhood intervention services outlined in an individualized family service plan. This change aims to streamline access to necessary services for children identified as having developmental delays or who are at risk of such delays, ensuring they receive timely support without bureaucratic delays.

Contention

Discussions surrounding SB2225 may reveal some contention regarding the extent of the state's intervention in healthcare provisions for children, particularly relating to debates over managed care organizations and the potential implications for private insurance markets. Some stakeholders may voice concerns about the sustainability of funding and the effective implementation of the tele-connective pilot program that aims to integrate telehealth services into early childhood interventions, particularly regarding access in underserved areas. The bill also requires the establishment of ombudsman services, which may highlight the need for advocacy and support for providers navigating this new framework.