Texas House Bill HB885

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24

Caption

Relating to Medicaid coverage and reimbursement for emergency outpatient dialysis treatment provided to certain individuals with end stage renal disease.

Impact

The bill's implementation is expected to enhance access to necessary dialysis treatments for vulnerable populations, ensuring that individuals facing medical emergencies due to end stage renal disease receive timely and critical care. By clarifying Medicaid's role in covering these emergency situations, the legislation aims to minimize gaps in care that can arise from policy ambiguities. If successful, this bill would likely improve health outcomes for these individuals by facilitating necessary treatment without the burden of additional expenses.

Summary

House Bill 885 proposes changes to Medicaid coverage specifically targeting emergency outpatient dialysis treatment for individuals diagnosed with end stage renal disease. The bill seeks to amend Chapter 32 of the Human Resources Code by adding a new section that outlines conditions under which emergency dialysis treatment must be covered under Medicaid. This change is particularly crucial for individuals who meet specific criteria set forth by existing federal statutes related to medical assistance benefits.

Contention

Notably, the bill includes a provision that permits delay in implementation should a state agency determine that a federal waiver is needed prior to the enactment of its provisions. This aspect may lead to discussions regarding how federal regulations intersect with state initiatives and may pose a potential barrier to quick implementation. Stakeholders may raise concerns regarding the efficacy of Medicaid in handling emergency treatments especially in cases where additional bureaucratic steps are required, which could ultimately influence the bill's passage and implementation timeline.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Human Resources Code

• Chapter 32. Medical Assistance Program
  • Section: New Section