Texas House Bill HB76

Texas 2021 - 87th 3rd C.S.

Caption

Relating to a pilot project to provide emergency telemedicine medical services and telehealth services in rural areas.

Impact

This bill will amend the Health and Safety Code to introduce a new subchapter dedicated to the next generation 9-1-1 telemedicine medical services and telehealth services. It is anticipated that these changes will significantly improve the response capabilities of health care providers in rural trauma facilities, thus potentially reducing emergency response times and improving patient outcomes for individuals in critical need of medical attention. The emphasis on telehealth services reflects a growing trend towards remote healthcare solutions, particularly useful in the context of public health emergencies or natural disasters.

Summary

House Bill 76 proposes the establishment of a pilot project aimed at providing emergency telemedicine medical services and telehealth services specifically in rural areas of Texas. The bill seeks to enhance the availability of emergency medical care in regions where access to healthcare facilities is limited. Through the implementation of telemedicine, the project aims to deliver essential medical services to healthcare providers and emergency service providers in these rural settings, supporting both immediate medical assistance and educational resources.

Contention

While the bill garners support due to its intentions to address health disparities in rural areas, there may be contentions regarding its execution and funding. The successful implementation of such a pilot project relies heavily on the coordination between various health facilities and compliance with training standards for participating providers. Concerns about funding sources, the adequacy of resources for technological implementation, and the overall logistics of training health professionals are likely points of discussion among legislators and stakeholders interested in rural health services.