Texas Senate Bill SB2048

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the telephone availability of certain personnel by certain health benefit plan issuers and utilization review agents.

Impact

The implications of SB2048 are significant for state law as it amends sections of the Insurance Code to impose stricter accessibility requirements on health maintenance organizations and insurers. By ensuring that personnel are available at any time, the bill aims to enhance customer service in the healthcare field, potentially leading to improved health outcomes due to timely access to necessary services. This legislative change may require healthcare providers to adapt their operations to comply with these new standards, potentially increasing operational costs.

Summary

Senate Bill 2048 addresses the availability of personnel for health benefit plan issuers and utilization review agents. The bill mandates that certain health maintenance organizations and insurers provide access to appropriate personnel via a toll-free telephone number 24 hours a day throughout the year. This requirement seeks to improve patient access to verification and preauthorization processes, ensuring that individuals seeking health services can do so without the limitations of traditional business hours.

Contention

Notably, there could be points of contention surrounding the implementation of SB2048. Stakeholders might express concerns regarding the challenges faced by smaller insurers and health organizations in meeting the 24/7 accessibility requirement. These entities may argue that the financial burden of maintaining such a service could lead to higher premiums for consumers or limit their ability to offer diverse services. Addressing these potential challenges will be vital in ensuring that the goals of the bill are met while maintaining a sustainable healthcare environment.