Relating to a preceptorship program in a pediatric subspecialty for medical students in this state.
Summary
HB 4438 would authorize the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to contract with one or more organizations to operate a statewide pediatric subspecialty preceptorship program for medical students enrolled in Texas medical schools. The program is aimed at students who have already expressed interest in pursuing a pediatric subspecialty career, and it would apply to students beginning in the 2025-2026 academic year.
The bill defines eligible medical schools broadly enough to include the University of the Incarnate Word’s school of osteopathic medicine, and it limits eligible program operators to nonprofit organizations exempt under federal tax law or programs run by a state-accredited medical school. The measure is framed as a workforce-development and training initiative intended to expose future physicians to pediatric subspecialty practice and potentially strengthen the pipeline into those fields.
Impact
HB 4438 would add Section 58.011 to the Education Code and create a new statewide preceptorship program within the higher education system. It would give the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board authority to contract for program administration and would establish eligibility criteria for both participating organizations and medical students. The bill would not directly regulate medical practice or licensing, but it would affect Texas medical schools, nonprofit medical education organizations, and students seeking pediatric subspecialty training opportunities.
Sentiment
The bill appears to have been generally favorable in concept, as reflected by its introduction and movement through the Higher Education committees in both chambers, but the available record does not include committee testimony or recorded votes showing detailed support or opposition. Its focus on pediatric workforce development suggests a policy goal that is likely to be broadly viewed positively, especially among medical education and child health stakeholders. However, the bill was ultimately laid on the table subject to call in the House, indicating that it did not advance cleanly at that stage.
Contention
No specific objections are documented in the provided materials, but potential points of contention could include whether the state should fund or coordinate a new preceptorship program, which entities should be eligible to operate it, and how broadly the term "medical school" should be defined. Another possible issue is whether the program should prioritize pediatric subspecialty training over other physician workforce needs. Because there are no transcripts or votes included, the record does not identify any named opponents or supporters.
Establishes option for students nearing completion of program in chiropractic medicine to participate in preceptorship provided by State-licensed chiropractor.
Relating to required screenings for pediatric feeding disorder for students with certain disabilities and to the individualized education programs for certain public school students with pediatric feeding disorder.
Relating to required screenings for pediatric feeding disorder for students with certain disabilities and to the individualized education programs for certain public school students with pediatric feeding disorder.