Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1798

Filed
1/30/23  
Out of House Committee
5/2/23  
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the development of a strategic plan for home and community-based services provided under Medicaid and the child health plan program and the establishment of an advisory committee on home and community-based services.

Impact

The legislation is expected to establish a structured approach to delivering home and community-based services, potentially alleviating the current challenges associated with service access under Medicaid. By establishing clear rate methodologies and evaluation criteria, HB 1798 seeks to improve service delivery and create standards for access to care. The strategic plan will also analyze the costs associated with inadequate access to services, which could lead to long-term savings for the state by enabling timely interventions in home and community settings instead of institutional care.

Summary

House Bill 1798 aims to develop a strategic plan for improving access to home and community-based services under the Texas Medicaid program and the Child Health Plan Program. The bill mandates the establishment of an advisory committee tasked with advising the Health and Human Services Commission on effective service delivery and rate methodology. The focus is on providing non-technical medically related personal care services to eligible individuals facing limitations due to health problems. The plan must address the unmet needs of program enrollees and ensure adequate access to these vital services, which are crucial for individuals needing assistance with daily living activities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1798 appears to be largely positive among supporters, including healthcare advocates and professionals in the home care sector, who believe that the bill will enhance the quality of care for vulnerable populations. However, the necessity of the bill and the effectiveness of the proposed advisory committee may be points of contention among critics who might call for greater accountability and oversight in the execution of such plans.

Contention

Key points of contention might arise from concerns over the potential bureaucratic challenges in implementing the strategic plan and the effectiveness of the advisory committee. Some stakeholders may worry that the diverse representation within the committee could lead to conflict or diluted decision-making if interests are not adequately balanced. Additionally, the timeframe for the plan's development and subsequent reviews could raise questions about the timely execution of much-needed improvements in service accessibility.

Companion Bills

TX SB663

Identical Relating to the development of a strategic plan for home and community-based services provided under Medicaid and the child health plan program and the establishment of an advisory committee on home and community-based services.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4117

Relating to the development of a strategic plan for home and community-based services provided under Medicaid and the child health plan program and the establishment of an advisory committee on home and community-based services.

TX A4308

Requires DHS to increase home and community-based services under Medicaid.

TX S09507

Provides additional support to medically fragile children who rely on community-based or home health services.

TX A08604

Provides additional support to medically fragile children who rely on community-based or home health services.

TX HB4282

Relating to the provision of residential services under the Medicaid home and community-based services (HCS) waiver program.

TX HF2641

A bill for an act relating to the Medicaid home and community-based services elderly waiver program, including transition planning and assisted living services.(Formerly HSB 739.)

TX HSB739

A bill for an act relating to the Medicaid home and community-based services elderly waiver program, including transition planning and assisted living services.(See HF 2641.)

TX SB72

Provide presumptive eligibility for Medicaid coverage of home and community-based services

TX HB1262

Home and community based services waivers.

TX HB4029

To provide for an emergency increase in Federal funding to State Medicaid programs for expenditures on home and community-based services.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.