Texas Senate Bill SB1487

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/20/25

Caption

Relating to the participation of an advanced practice registered nurse as a participating or preferred provider for health maintenance organizations and preferred provider benefit plans.

Impact

The bill is anticipated to facilitate broader access to healthcare services, particularly in underserved areas where there may be a shortage of physicians. By enabling APRNs to act as preferred providers, SB1487 seeks to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare delivery, ultimately benefiting patients who may experience longer wait times when seeing a physician. This legislative change aligns with national trends that recognize the vital role of APRNs in the healthcare system.

Summary

SB1487 focuses on expanding the participation of advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) within health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and preferred provider benefit plans in Texas. The bill allows HMOs to contract directly with APRNs to provide healthcare services, irrespective of whether their supervising physician is part of the HMO network. This change is intended to enhance patient access to care by allowing APRNs to function with greater autonomy in certain healthcare settings.

Contention

Despite its supportive goals, the bill may encounter contention related to concerns about patient safety and the quality of care provided by APRNs. Some stakeholders may argue that the reduction in physician oversight could lead to inconsistencies in care or challenge existing quality control measures. Additionally, there could be opposition from physician organizations that may feel threatened by the expanded role of APRNs, arguing that it may undermine the traditional physician-led model of healthcare delivery.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Insurance Code

• Chapter 843. Health Maintenance Organizations
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 1301. Preferred Provider Benefit Plans
  • Section: New Section