TX
Texas Senate Bill SB674

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB674

Caption

Relating to the availability of antipsychotic prescription drugs under the vendor drug program and Medicaid managed care.

Impact

The passage of SB674 may significantly alter the landscape of prescription drug access within the state's Medicaid system, particularly for patients with mental health issues. By removing prior authorization requirements for specific medications, the bill seeks to enhance patient autonomy and support timely treatment interventions. Additionally, the legislation could encourage healthcare providers to consider prescribing antipsychotic medications without fear of administrative barriers, subsequently fostering better communication between prescribers and patients regarding mental health care.

Summary

Senate Bill 674 relates to improving access to antipsychotic prescription drugs under Texas's vendor drug program and Medicaid managed care system. The bill proposes that Medicaid managed care organizations cannot require prior authorization for antipsychotic drugs prescribed to adults diagnosed with a mental illness, provided specific medical criteria are met. This aims to streamline the drug approval process and ensure that patients receive necessary medications without undue delays, thus improving health outcomes for those with mental health conditions.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB674 arise from concerns about the potential for over-prescribing antipsychotics without prior checks. Critics argue that eliminating prior authorization might lead to misuse or inappropriate prescribing, impacting overall patient safety. On the other hand, proponents stress the importance of ensuring that patients receive essential and timely care, particularly in a field as sensitive as mental health, where delays can lead to worsening conditions. The tension between maintaining pharmaceutical oversight and enhancing patient access to necessary medications remains a critical part of the ongoing discussion surrounding this bill.

Companion Bills

TX HB2822

Same As Relating to the availability of antipsychotic prescription drugs under the vendor drug program and Medicaid managed care.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1293

Relating to the reimbursement of prescription drugs under Medicaid and the child health plan program.

TX HB1283

Relating to prescription drug formularies applicable to the Medicaid managed care program.

TX SB1113

Relating to prescription drug formularies applicable to the Medicaid managed care program.

TX HB3286

Relating to prescription drug benefits under Medicaid and the child health plan program.

TX SB2201

Relating to certain prescription drug benefits under the Medicaid managed care program.

TX SB2173

Relating to a pilot program for the safe disposal of prescription drugs, including controlled substance prescription drugs.

TX HB1373

Relating to a pilot program for the safe disposal of controlled substance prescription drugs.

TX HB3214

Relating to the determination of prescription drug reimbursement amounts under the Medicaid vendor drug program.

TX SB1619

Relating to the determination of prescription drug reimbursement amounts under the Medicaid vendor drug program.

TX HB4611

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.

Similar Bills

TX HB2822

Relating to the availability of antipsychotic prescription drugs under the vendor drug program and Medicaid managed care.

TX HB1293

Relating to the reimbursement of prescription drugs under Medicaid and the child health plan program.

TX HB3685

Relating to pharmacy benefits provided through the Medicaid managed care program.

TX HB1283

Relating to prescription drug formularies applicable to the Medicaid managed care program.

TX SB1113

Relating to prescription drug formularies applicable to the Medicaid managed care program.

TX HB3441

Relating to timely claims payments in the Medicaid managed care program.

TX SB1922

Relating to contract requirements for prescription drug benefits provided by Medicaid managed care organizations and a study regarding Medicaid prior authorization requirements for certain prescription drugs.

TX SB1096

Relating to the Medicaid managed care program, including the provision of pharmacy benefits.