Texas Senate Bill SB593

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to access to a county jail prisoner's health benefits coverage information for mental health service providers.

Impact

The implementation of SB593 is expected to streamline the process through which mental health service providers can bill insurance companies for services rendered to prisoners. By mandating that health coverage information be gathered and shared with service providers, the bill seeks to ensure that mental health services are more readily accessible to imprisoned individuals, potentially improving their overall treatment and outcomes.

Summary

SB593 is legislation that aims to improve access to health benefits coverage information for mental health service providers treating prisoners in county jails in Texas. The bill proposes the addition of Section 511.0098 to Chapter 511 of the Government Code, which requires local mental health authorities or other mental health service providers to collect essential health coverage details from prisoners who are insured. This is intended to facilitate payment for mental health services provided to these individuals under county contracts.

Contention

Although the bill has the potential for positive outcomes in terms of access to mental health care, some may raise concerns regarding the privacy of prisoners' health information and how such data is managed by state authorities. There could also be arguments around the adequacy of mental health resources in jails and whether the insurance systems will efficiently process these claims, particularly in the context of county budgets and resource allocations. Advocates for prisoner rights may voice concerns about ensuring that such services are not only available on paper but also effectively delivered in practice.