Legislative Update, April 23

In this issue:

Upcoming Hearings for the week of April 22

Upcoming Meetings & Events

 

View our 2019 Legislative Agenda

Advocacy

Bill Tracking

Research

 

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State Updates

House Passes Health Literacy Bill

One out of five Texans lack the knowledge to manage their health and prevent disease. Knowing how to seek medical care and take advantage of preventive services requires understanding health information to make informed decisions. Last Tuesday, Representative John Turner (D- Dallas), laid out House Bill 2032 on the House floor for consideration, where it easily passed on a vote of 101-33 and is now headed to the Senate. The bill directs the Statewide Health Coordinating Council (SHCC) to create an advisory committee that will develop a state plan to increase health literacy so that Texans are able to obtain, process and understand basic health information to make healthy decisions. 

The health impacts of low health literacy result in the reduced physical and mental health of Texans. Methodist Healthcare Ministries championed similar legislation in 2017 and returned this session to support the SHCC’s formal recommendation to establish these provisions in statute. The development of a health literacy plan will increase patient adherence, decrease hospital readmissions and increase a patient’s ability to manage medications correctly. Work continues to secure a hearing for HB 2032 in the Senate Health and Human Services Committee in the coming weeks.

House and Senate Appoint Budget Conferees

The House and Senate have completed work on their respective versions of the state’s two-year budget, the 2020-2021 General Appropriations Act, and must now come to an agreement before the legislative session officially ends on May 27. House Speaker Dennis Bonnen and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick each named five members to the Budget Conference Committee to iron out the differences between the House and Senate appropriation bills.

  • In the House, Representative John Zerwas (R- Fulshear) will serve alongside Representatives Greg Bonnen (R-Friendswood), Sarah Davis (R-Houston), Oscar Longoria (D-Mission), and Armando Walle (D-Houston).
  • In the Senate, Senator Jane Nelson (R-Grapevine) will serve alongside Senators Joan Huffman (R-Houston), Lois Kolkhorst (R-Brenham), Larry Taylor (R-Friendswood), and Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville).

Leaders remain optimistic about reaching an agreement on the budget, however, there are significant differences between the House and Senate. The House budget appropriates $116.5 billion in state funds and $2.3 billion from the Economic Stabilization Fund (ESF), while the Senate budget appropriates $116.8 billion in state funds and no dollars from ESF. The Legislative Budget Board has released the following summaries for the House and Senate bills. Methodist Healthcare Ministries has several important issues that will be decided in conference negotiations, including funding for the reconstruction of the San Antonio State Hospital, outpatient mental health treatment, substance use treatment, women’s health programs, early childhood intervention services, and other budget items. Conferees are expected to convene for their first meeting on Tuesday, April 23.

Improving Access to Oral Health Through Teledentistry

While oral healthcare has improved across many states, Texas continues to fall behind and currently ranks 44thin the nation for rural oral healthcare. Currently, 310,000 Texans do not have access to dental care, with 93,000 insured patients needing to travel more than 15 miles to access dental services and 411,000 people living in a designated dental health professional shortage area. As a result of the low ranking, the U.S. Rural Health Report Card for 2017 gave Texas an “F” for rural access to dental care. To improve access to dental care for underserved areas, Senator Charles Perry (R-Lubbock) filed Senate Bill 792. The bill received a hearing last week in the Senate Health & Human Services Committee and remains pending.

Of Texas’ 29 million resident’s, teledentistry stands to provide care to 3.1 million patients in rural communities. SB 792 defines teledentistry and enables dentists to supervise up to two dental hygienists at alternative sites using telemedical services, bringing care directly to patients. Witnesses in support of the bill testified that SB 792 lays the groundwork for improving access to oral healthcare and explained the need to integrate medicine and dentistry through telehealth oral consultations for effective disease prevention and identification, such as cancers.

Increasing access to routine oral health care services that prevent tooth decay and reduce the prevalence of chronic diseases is a legislative priority for Methodist Healthcare Ministries. In an effort to engage local faith communities on improving access to dental care, the Ministries providing funding to Texas Impact to develop the 2018 primer, Equipping Texas Faith Communities for Oral Health Leadership.

Border Health Bills Get Heard in Senate Committee 

In response to emerging public health threats, such as tuberculosis and Zika outbreaks, the Task Force of Border Health Officials was formed last session to identify public health priorities uniquely affecting counties on the Texas-Mexico border. Local health department officials appointed to the Task Force released a legislative report in December outlining both short-term and long-term recommendations that would aim to: improve the public health infrastructure, reduce communicable diseases, reduce chronic diseases, improve environmental health and improve maternal child health in border counties. To codify these recommendations into law, Senator Eddie Lucio, Jr (D-Brownsville) laid out the following bills in the Senate Health and Human Services Committee last week.

  •  Senate Bill 1119– Establishes the border public health initiative to reduce the adverse health impacts of diabetes, hypertension, and obesity for adults and children by promoting educational resources, screenings and referrals.
  • Senate Bill 1120– Provides border-specific continuing education training to community health workers, health care professionals and local public health employees to diagnose and treat communicable diseases, such as tuberculosis and increase immunization rates.
  • Senate Bill 1121– Improves access to laboratory agreements for public health departments along the border so that public health departments in a short time frame can test specimens to diagnose and treat diseases.
  • Senate Bill 1122– Establishes a sanitarian recruitment and retention program that would improve disease management response by controlling vector breeding of food-borne, water-borne, vector-borne and zoonotic diseases, such as Zika.
  • Senate Bill 1124– Establishes the public health multidisciplinary response team (consisting of an epidemiologist, nurse, sanitarian and public health specialist) which would be deployed to assess the border health infrastructure, response capabilities and develop countermeasures to mitigate emerging public health threats.
  • Senate Bill 1312– Issues restricted pesticide applicator licenses to local health departments for the sole purpose of mosquito control in border counties. The bill also directs the study of the ongoing needs of border counties related to infectious disease management.
  • Senate Bill 1313– Establishes a school-based childhood obesity and other chronic disease prevention demonstration program and establishes a chronic disease prevention program for adults to serve border counties. MHM supports this bill to establish best practices to successfully address childhood obesity and chronic disease prevention.

Testifying in support of these bills were Dr. Hector Gonzales, with the City of Laredo Health Department, and Eduardo Olivarez, with the Hidalgo County Health and Human Services Department. They explained how border counties are uniquely affected by transnational diseases and public health threats and emphasized the importance of growing local health care professionals that understand the bi-cultural needs of the region. Methodist Healthcare Ministries staff attended the Task Force hearings in Austin over the interim to learn more of the health needs impacting border counties and registered in support of the Senate bills. SB 1124 and SB 1312 were unanimously voted out of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee and have been placed on the Senate Intent Calendar. The remaining bills are currently pending in committee awaiting further action.

Upcoming Hearings for the week of April 22

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Friday, April 26 at 12:00 – Texas Tribune: A Conversation on Children’s Health and Vaccines. Registration In Person / Livestream

Saturday, May 4 at 10:30 – Minds Matter Conference; Breaking the Silence on Suicide (San Antonio College)

 

For more information on health care research, policy or advocacy, please contact Chris Yanas at cyanas@mhm.org.

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Legislative Update, April 16

In this issue:

Upcoming Hearings for the week of April 15

View our 2019 Legislative Agenda

Advocacy

Bill Tracking

Research

 

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State Updates

Mental Health Grants Identified for School-Based Health Centers

One in five children experiences serious mental illness, and with the tragic school shooting at Santa Fe High School and the impact of Hurricane Harvey still being felt around the state, increasing access to mental health screening and treatment for youths has become eminent. Last Wednesday, the House Public Health Committee took testimony on House Bill 1335, authored by Rep. Four Price (R-Amarillo), which creates a behavioral health grant program for school-based health centers. School-based health centers allow school districts and community partners, such as local mental health authorities and nonprofit organizations, to develop cooperative health care programs for students and families in schools. Currently, these health centers focus on immunizations, dental health care, health education and preventive health strategies. House Bill 1335 would create a dedicated grant for behavioral health professionals in schools, integrating behavioral health services in the school environment and ultimately improving the emotional well-being and academic performance of at-risk students.

With 1.9 million youths in Texas needing behavioral health services by age 14, integrating behavioral health services in schools will increase access to care at a critical stage in youth development. Testifying in support of HB 1335, Dr. Teandra Gordon, with Legacy Community Health, spoke to the positive impact of providing mental health services in schools, especially for our uninsured or underinsured students. Joining in support were Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute, NAMI Texas, Texans Care for Children, the Hogg Foundation for Mental Health, among other health advocates. There were also witnesses who registered in opposition to the bill, arguing the program would diminish parents’ rights and distract school teachers from focusing on teaching.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries owns and operates two school-based health centers, located on the Schertz and Marion Independent School District campuses in Guadalupe County. Both offer pediatric primary care and dental services, as well as behavioral health counseling. Methodist Healthcare Ministries supports the passage of House Bill 1335 and its efforts to expand early identification and intervention of behavioral health needs for children. The bill was left pending in committee where it awaits further action.

Extending Health Services for Post-Partum Moms 

Roughly 1.8 million Texas women are in need of access to preventive health services, yet less than a quarter of these women currently receive the care they need. When women experience gaps in their healthcare coverage, it increases their risk for negative health outcomes. The Texas Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Task Force found that over one-half of pregnancy-related deaths occurred after 60 days postpartum and that 80 percent of these deaths were potentially preventable had these women received access to health care coverage. The House Human Services Committee heard from witnesses last week on House Bill 1110 by Rep. Sarah Davis (R-Houston), which seeks to maximize the utilization of services and programs in the women’s healthcare safety net, reduce the state’s maternal mortality rates and save Texas taxpayer dollars. 

As recommended by the Maternal Task Force’s Biennial Report, House Bill 1110 extends coverage for maternal Medicaid benefits from 60 days to 12 months postpartum. Signing up in support of the bill were advocates representing Healthy Futures of Texas, Texans Care for Children, Children’s Defense Fund, the Center for Public Policy Priorities, and The Texas Women’s Health Coalition. The bill was left pending in committee by Chair James Frank (R-Wichita Falls). Methodist Healthcare Ministries joined advocates in support of HB 1110 and efforts by Rep. Davis to improve access to health care services for women which will improve maternal health and reduce poor health outcomes.

Bolstering the Early Childhood Intervention Program in Texas

Annually, the Texas Health and Human Service’s Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) program serves more than 50,000 children statewide between the ages 0-3 with physical, intellectual or mental disabilities. Children in this program receive speech, occupational and in-home therapies which are instrumental to their development. On April 9, House Bill 12 by Rep. Sarah Davis (R-Houston) was heard by the House Human Services Committee. The bill establishes safeguards for the ECI program, eases the burden on providers and increases access to services for families in need.

To develop a sustainable ECI program, the bill’s committee substitute would require private insurers cover select ECI services (e.g., specialized skilled training and case management), ensure parity exists between private insurers and Medicaid, create an ombudsman for ECI providers, and establish an ECI telehealth pilot program. Noted during the hearing was the fact that parents with private insurance often opted not to secure ECI services primarily because not all services are covered by their insurers. Concern was also expressed for parents having to pay high deductibles. Christie Shaw with West Texas Centers testified in favor of the bill, noting the committee substitute would expand their current pilot program and encourage providers be reimbursed for their services.

Between 2010 and 2018 Texas lost 16 ECI providers, impacting 83 counties and more than 7,600 children statewide. Stephanie Rubin with Texans Care for Children emphasized the importance of having an adequate ECI provider network, and that with only 42 current providers for the entire state, the telehealth program would be critical in improving access to services.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries supports increasing access to ECI services which improve childhood outcomes and result in cost savings to the state by reducing the number of children who need special education services later in school. House Bill 12 was left pending in committee. The companion bill, Senate Bill 2225 by Senator Judith Zaffirini (D-Laredo), currently awaits a hearing in the Senate Health and Human Services Committee.

Funding Recovery Community Organizations and Peer to Peer Counseling Model

Substance use disorders affect 1.6 million adults and 1.1 million children in Texas, however, accessing treatment and recovery services is an ongoing challenge. Only 8.6 percent of Texans over the age of 12 who use illicit drugs receive treatment, far below the national average of 14.1 percent. Fortunately, recovery community organizations (RCOs), independent nonprofit organizations led by representatives of local communities of recovery, help connect people to treatment and fill the gap in the SUD treatment infrastructure. These unique organizations provide recovery and family supports through peer-to-peer counseling services. House Bill 1613 by Rep. Joe Moody (D-El Paso) seeks to bolster community-led efforts by RCOs that combat substance use disorder by securing reimbursement for providers who use peer-to-peer counseling services. 

RCOs participate in organizing recovery-focused community education, outreach programs and peer-based support services. HB 1613 defines the parameters, certification requirements, training requirements and the scope of RCOs to qualify for Medicaid reimbursements. Currently, RCOs are sustained through federal, state and private grants. The implementation of a billable service through the Medicaid program, however, would allow RCOs to focus on increasing the quality of long-term recovery services. Advocates of the RCO model testified on the value of the peer-to-peer model of care, the cost-effectiveness of RCOs and how the program ensures fidelity to recovery.

Increasing access to behavioral health and substance use disorder services through the peer-to-peer counseling model is a priority for Methodist Healthcare Ministries, which recognizes the vital importance in accessing treatment and saving lives. HB 1613 was left pending in committee.

Bill Looks to Increase Telepharmacy Sites in Rural Counties

The link between poor medication adherence and hospital readmissions is well documented. A single day gap in medication therapy increases the chance of hospitalization by 50 percent. By contrast, having a pharmacy located at a clinical site that provides medications to patients upon leaving a medical visit, can reduce rehospitalizations by 40 percent. On Wednesday, the House Public Health Committee took testimony on House Bill 1706 by Representative Tom Oliverson (R-Houston), which seeks to increase access to prescription medication in underserved communities by expanding the list of healthcare facilities eligible to host a telepharmacy site to include: federally qualified health centers, community health centers, birthing centers, hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers, outpatient clinics and public health clinics.

Low volume of prescriptions, notably in rural areas, prevents pharmacies from being staffed by pharmacists. Fortunately, current law allows remote pharmacies to operate in rural areas using a telepharmacy system, with the stipulation that they be located at least 22 miles from a Class A pharmacy. At these remote dispensing sites, the pharmacy technician fills the prescription, has the prescription reviewed by a pharmacist using technology, and remotely secures a 2-way HIPAA compliant consultation between the patient and pharmacist. House Bill 1706 directs telepharmacies to operate in a setting which will allow for convenient access to a pharmacist, increasing first-fill and medication adherence rates. Witnesses in support testified that the bill would allow a community mental health center to co-locate a pharmacy dispensing site at a satellite campus to reach the most vulnerable patients, namely those with mental illness.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries supports the efforts of House Bill 1706 to increase access to medications for patients in underserved and remote areas of the state, ultimately working toward improving patient outcomes, curbing hospital readmissions and decreasing overall healthcare costs. HB 1706 was left pending in committee, awaiting further action.

Upcoming Hearings for the week of April 15

For more information on health care research, policy or advocacy, please contact Chris Yanas at cyanas@mhm.org.

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Legislative Update, April 8

In this issue:

Upcoming Hearings for the week of April 1

Upcoming Meetings & Events

View our 2019 Legislative Agenda

Advocacy

Bill Tracking

Research

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________

State Updates

Texas Budget Bill Moves through House and Senate 

Texas lawmakers worked until the late hours of the night on March 27 to debate the Texas budget for FY 2020-2021. As the only bill that must pass during the 140-day legislative session, lawmakers had one more opportunity to amend the proposed budget before it heads to the Senate and ultimately the conference committee negotiating process. More than 350 amendments were filed, however a large number were withdrawn by the authors or ruled out on a technicality. Ultimately, the House passed a $251 billion budget with $87.6 billion dedicated to health and human services programs.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries expresses its thanks to State Representative Roland Gutierrez (D – San Antonio) for filing an amendment to fully fund the reconstruction of the San Antonio State Hospital, estimated at $323 million for the 300-bed facility. The amendment was ultimately placed in Article XI of the House budget, essentially a wish list of proposals that are not formally adopted but do remain in play during conference committee negotiations.

House Bill 1 proceeded to the Senate Finance Committee last week and was heard Wednesday, April 4. The Senate Committee Substitute to House Bill 1 (CSHB 1) was voted out unanimously and is scheduled to be voted on by the full Senate Tuesday, April 9. CSHB 1 currently includes $248 billion with $92.2 billion allocated for health and human services. Specific initiatives in the Senate version include:

  • $948 million for community mental health services for adults and children
  • $315 million for Women’s Health Programs
  • $313 million for early childhood intervention services
  • $252 million for EMS and trauma care systems
  • $167 million for immunizations initiatives for adults and children

With only seven weeks remaining in the 86thLegislative Session, Methodist Healthcare Ministries continues its efforts to advocate for programs and funding that impact the healthcare of our neediest families.

Committee Looks at Incentivizing Healthy Food Purchases for Low-income Families 

The Senate Health and Human Services Committee heard testimony this week on legislation that would direct the state to study local programs across communities working to incentivize the purchase of fruits and vegetables through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Senate Bill 1834 by Representative Carol Alvarado (D – Houston) would give low-income Texans access to affordable healthy foods through a state pilot program that would stretch current SNAP benefits even further.

Passage of the federal Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, more commonly known as the Farm Bill, appropriated roughly $250 million over five years for SNAP incentive programs to encourage fresh produce consumption. Texas has started to take steps to promote the availability of SNAP incentive programs, such as the popular Sustainable Food Center’s Double Dollars program, which provides SNAP recipients an extra dollar for every dollar of SNAP benefits spent on locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables. A number of incentive programs exist at the local level, but to date, no state-level programming or investment has been made.

Farmers, grocery store owners, local vendors, and small retail stores would also benefit from higher sales of locally grown produce. Testifying on behalf of the Sustainable Food Center, Alex Canepa spoke in favor of SB 1834, stating his farmers markets currently support incentive programs. He noted that Texas is lagging other states who are already implementing successful programs, giving Michigan as an example.

SNAP benefits are 100 percent federally funded and assist millions of low-income families with the purchase of groceries. Studies show that many of these same low-income families are disproportionately struggling with obesity and Type 2 diabetes. Nearly 30 percent of all Texas children benefit from the SNAP program and over half of SNAP recipients in Texas are under the age of 18. Methodist Healthcare Ministries joined efforts with the American Heart Association and the Partnership for a Healthy Texas coalition to support the passage of SB 1834. The bill was left pending in the Senate Health and Human Services Committee by Chair Lois Kolkhorst.

Nurse Practitioner Bill Aims to Increase Access to Care 

Access to care advocates testified before members of the House Public Health Committee in support of House Bill 1792 by Representative Stephanie Klick (R-Fort Worth) which looks to expand access to primary care by providing a pathway to full practice for nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives and clinical nurse specialists. The bill would require at least one year of experience under a delegating physician and increase the required continuing education requirements for APRNs from 20 to 48 hours, the equivalent of physician continuing education requirements.

Current Texas law prevents advanced practice registered nurses from providing health care to the full extent of their licensure and training. Today, APRNs must sign a delegation agreement with a collaborating physician to practice, even though the partnering physician is not required to be on-site or see any of the patients. Advocates testified this delegation agreement adds to health care bureaucracy and red tape, taking time away from patients and increasing costs for businesses and providers. Twenty-four states, the Veterans Administration and all branches of military have repealed laws that include these delegation agreements to increase access to care for their patients.

Testifying in opposition were physicians representing the Texas Medical Association as well as other independent providers, who shared that the extensive level of education and experience of a medical doctor were needed to ensure the necessary oversight and safety of patients. HB 1792 was left pending in committee.

House Bill Allows Dentists to Delegate Delivery of Anesthesia to Licensed Hygienists

Members of the House Public Health Subcommittee on Health Professions also heard testimony on House Bill 2275 by Representative Stephanie Klick (R-Fort Worth). The bill, as filed, would allow dentists to delegate to a licensed hygienist the ability to deliver an anesthetic in the presence of a dentist. The delegation provision is optional and does not create a mandate.

Witnesses testifying in support noted that this practice is currently allowed in 48 other states. The Texas Dental Hygienist Association registered in support of HB 2275 and shared the different levels of training and education necessary for accreditation. Dr. David Reeves, a member of the Texas Dental Association Periodontists and an instructor at the VA testified in support of the bill, stating that local anesthesia is safe when proper dosages and techniques are utilized. Testifying in opposition to the bill was a representative of the Texas Dental Association who stated the bill lowered the standards of care and was unnecessary. HB 2275 was left pending in committee. Methodist Healthcare Ministries signed up in support of HB 2275 which increases access to oral health in Texas.

Upcoming Hearings for week of April 8

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Apr 15-16: TX Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy 8thAnnual Symposium– Sponsored by Methodist Healthcare Ministries (Austin)

For more information on health care research, policy or advocacy, please contact Chris Yanas at cyanas@mhm.org.

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Legislative Update, April 1

In this issue:

Upcoming Hearings for week of April 1

Upcoming Meetings & Events

View our 2019 Legislative Agenda

Advocacy

Bill Tracking

Research

 

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State Updates

Health Advocates Testify for State Health Literacy Plan

State Representative John Turner with health literacy advocates from San Antonio, Dallas and Fort Worth, TX

Methodist Healthcare Ministries submitted testimony in support of House Bill 2032 by Representative John Turner (D-Dallas) at the House Public Health committee hearing last Wednesday. The bill would direct the Statewide Health Coordinating Council’s advisory committee to develop a plan that will increase health literacy, so Texans are able to obtain, process and understand basic health information to make healthy decisions. Dr. Caroline Bergeron from the Bexar County Health Collaborative, Dr. Oralia Bazaldua and Dr. Teresa Wagner from University of North Texas Health Science Center (UNTHSC) also testified in support of the bill. The bill will be amended to include oral health and is expected to be voted out of the Public Health Committee in the coming weeks.​

One out of five Texans lacks the knowledge to manage their health and prevent diseases. Low health literacy is linked to poor health outcomes, less frequent use of preventive services and higher rates of hospitalization. Knowing how to seek medical care and take advantage of preventive services requires understanding health information to make informed decisions. House Bill 2032 would save lives by increasing communication between patients and providers, improve the health of Texans by increasing access to preventive health care services and reduce health care costs by reducing unnecessary admissions to hospitals. Methodist Healthcare Ministries was instrumental in bringing this issue forward in 2017 and strongly supports the passage of House Bill 2032 and its efforts to improve the health and wellness of all Texans.

Lawmakers Propose Legislation to Ensure Continuity of Care for Women

Throughout the week, Methodist Healthcare Ministries supported several bills that would ensure women receive health services after delivery. Methodist Healthcare Ministries provided testimony to the House Human Services Committee in support of House Bill 744 by Representative Toni Rose (D-Dallas) to extend Medicaid for postpartum women up to 12 months. Several organizations testified in support of the bill, including the Texas Women’s Health Coalition and United Methodist Women, which was left pending in the committee by Chairman James Frank (R-Wichita Falls). Additionally, the House Insurance Committee considered House Bill 937 by Representative Sarah Davis (R-West University Place) to allow women to receive a 12-month supply of prescription contraceptives at one time. Supported by Methodist Healthcare Ministries, House Bill 937 was left pending in the committee by Chairman Eddie Lucio, III (D-Brownsville).

On Wednesday, The House Public Health Committee took testimony on House Bill 1641 by Representative Angie Chen Button (R-Richardson) and House Bill 2028 by Representative Julie Johnson (D-Carrolton). Both bills would ensure women receive proper follow-up care after delivery by requiring the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to provide information about the Healthy Texas Women program, including a list of providers in the area who are contracted with the program. House Bill 2028 would also require HHSC to provide a list of local hospitals in the notice. Both bills were left pending in the committee by Chairwoman Senfronia Thompson (D-Houston). Methodist Healthcare Ministries weighed in favorably on House Bill 1641 and House Bill 2028 to ensure continuity of quality care for women after pregnancy.

House Appropriations Committee Passes Budget Bills

On Monday, Methodist Healthcare Ministries submitted testimony to the House Appropriations Committee on health-related budget items in the General Appropriations Bill (House Bill 1) by Representative John Zerwas (R-Richmond) and the Supplemental Appropriations Bill (Senate Bill 500) by Senator Jane Nelson (R-Flower Mound). Both bills were voted favorably out of the House budget committee.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ testimony focused on securing full replacement funding for the San Antonio State Hospital and increases in salaries for state hospital employees. Full funding for construction and salaries are crucial to sustain operations and increase access to inpatient behavioral health services for the families in SASH’s 55-county catchment area. Methodist Healthcare Ministries also included recommendations for increased funding for outpatient behavioral health services, coordinated specialty care for First Episode Psychosis (FEP) and substance use services administered by the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS).

Texas Senate Committee Discusses Recess Policies in Schools

Methodist Healthcare Ministries provided written testimony in support of Senate Bill 364 by Senator Kirk Watson (D-Austin) at the Senate Education Committee’s hearing on March 12. The bill would require the Texas Education Agency to develop age-appropriate model recess policies that encourage constructive outdoor play time, provide guidance to school districts on maximizing physical activity and encourage Boards of Trustees to solicit input from local school health advisory councils (SHACs) for the adoption of policies that improve academic, physical and mental well-being. Senator Watson offered an amended version of SB 364 that would require SHACs, in lieu of the Texas Education Agency, to develop recess policies. The bill was left pending in committee.

Texas has the seventh highest obesity rate for youth ages 10-17 in the U.S., with over 600,000 Texas youth who are considered obese. Daily recess is shown to have health, social and academic benefits for students; however statewide policy recommendations do not exist. Senate Bill 364 would ensure children are active throughout the day, so they are more likely to thrive academically and socially. Methodist Healthcare Ministries supports the efforts of Senate Bill 364 to reduce childhood obesity and improve the health of our youngest generation.

Public Health Community Advocate to Raise Age to Purchase Tobacco Products

Several public health advocates testified in support of Senate Bill 21 by Senator Joan Huffman (R-Houston) at the Senate State Affairs Committee hearing last week, asking to raise the minimum age to purchase tobacco products from 18 to 21, more commonly known as Tobacco 21. Testimony focused on the medical and public health benefits associated with raising the age to access for tobacco products, including the prevention of cancer and other chronic diseases.

Senator Huffman shared with committee members that two-thirds of Texas voters favor raising the age for buying tobacco products to 21. About 95 percent of smokers start before the age of 12 and over 10,000 kids in Texas become daily smokers every year. Studies show that 498,000 Texas kids will ultimately die prematurely due to smoking. Raising the age to purchase tobacco is an effective strategy to fight tobacco use, one that the City of San Antonio effectively enacted on behalf of its residents on October 2018. Methodist Healthcare Ministries fully supports the Tobacco 21 initiative and all prevention efforts that improve the health and wellness of our communities.

Upcoming Hearings for week of April 1

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Apr 2: Immunization Advocacy and Rally Day– Sponsored by Methodist Healthcare Ministries (Austin)

Apr 15-16: TX Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy 8thAnnual Symposium– Sponsored by Methodist Healthcare Ministries (Austin)

For more information on health care research, policy or advocacy,please contact Chris Yanas at cyanas@mhm.org.

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Legislative Update, March 19

In this issue:

Upcoming Meetings & Events

View our 2019 Legislative Agenda

Advocacy

Bill Tracking

Research

 

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State Updates

Methodist Healthcare Ministries Sponsors Violence and Trauma Conference in Edinburg

With one in three Texans experiencing domestic violence in their life, family violence is a serious issue in Texas. On Tuesday, March 19, the RGV Equal Voice Network is hosting a Conference on Interpersonal Violence and Trauma at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) campus in Edinburg, Texas. Methodist Healthcare Ministries is proud to sponsor the event to promote awareness and education on issues regarding interpersonal violence and trauma. The half day conference will include a keynote presentation by Julian D. Ford, Ph.D., ABPP on promoting healthy relationships among young adults dealing with violence and trauma and a panel discussion about risk and resilience in interpersonal trauma.

In 2018, Methodist Healthcare Ministries joined Texas Impact in commissioning Responding to Family Violence: A Toolkit for Texas Faith Communities, a publication that provides educational materials and resources for congregations to promote awareness about family violence. Supporting public policies that provide services and resources for family violence victims is a top priority for the Ministries.

Texas Legislators Discuss Funding for San Antonio State Hospital Reconstruction

This past week, the Senate Finance and the House Appropriations Committees discussed funding the reconstruction of state mental health hospitals, including the San Antonio State Hospital (SASH). Methodist Healthcare Ministries submitted written testimony to the Senate Finance Committee in support of Senate Bill 500 by Senator Jane Nelson (R-Flower Mound. Bexar County mental health stakeholders joining in with support testimony included The Center for Health Care Services, University Health System and Clarity Child Guidance Center. Senate Bill 500 was voted out of the Senate Finance Committee on Monday and voted out favorably by the Senate Chamber on Wednesday. The bill was referred to the House Appropriations Committee and has been posted for a hearing on Monday, March 18.

The House Appropriations Committee met last Tuesday to accept subcommittee recommendations which includes reconstruction funds for SASH and an increase in salaries for state hospital employees. The Committee voted to adopt $270 million in funds for the San Antonio State Hospital, along with funding for other state hospitals in Texas. Committee members adopted an increase of $30 million for state hospital staff salaries, which is 50 percent of HHSC’s initial budget request. Work continues to secure full funding of SASH and HHSC’s exceptional item request for state hospital salaries, which are essential to sustain operations.

House Committees Look to Improve Children’s Health

Methodist Healthcare Ministries provided written testimony in support of several bills that would improve the health and wellness of Texas’ youngest generation in several committee hearings this week. House Bill 680 by Representative Joe Deshotel (D-Beaumont), which was heard in the House Committee on International Relations and Economic Development, would require the Texas Workforce Commission to assess and report the average cost of child care and total number of providers and children participating in the state’s subsidized child care program. The bill was left pending in the committee by Chairman Rafael Anchia (D-Dallas).

Methodist Healthcare Ministries also weighed in on House Bill 340 and House Bill 342 by Representative Philip Cortez (D-San Antonio) this past week. HB 340 would reduce childhood obesity by requiring 30 minutes of daily recess for children from pre-K to 2nd grade, providing schools the opportunity to improve students’ physical activity and health. The bill was left pending in the House Public Education Committee by Chairman Dan Huberty (R-Houston). HB 342 addressed efforts to reduce the state’s uninsured rate for children by requiring continuous coverage on the Medicaid program for up to 12 months. The State’s current Medicaid policy allows for a six-month continuous coverage for children, followed by month-to-month audits on family income. HB 342 was left pending in the House Human Services Committee by Chairman James Frank (R-Wichita Falls).

House Public Health Committee Addresses Access to Women’s Health Programs

On Wednesday, Methodist Healthcare Ministries supported House Bill 1589 by Representative Evelina Ortega (D-El Paso) in written testimony to the House Public Health Committee. House Bill 1589 informs women about their auto-enrollment into the Healthy Texas Women (HTW) program during their third trimester, securing continuity of care for women’s health services after delivery. The bill was left pending in the Public Health Committee by Chairwoman Senfronia Thompson (D-Houston).

Auto-enrollment from Medicaid into the HTW program 60 days postpartum has been an important policy change to increase the number of women who access health care after they deliver through Medicaid. Legislative initiatives such as House Bill 1589 would ensure more women who are auto-enrolled are able to receive services. HTW increases continuity of care for women in a vulnerable period after delivery by improving birth spacing and health outcomes for future pregnancies, leading to stronger families and savings to the state and local taxpayers. Methodist Healthcare Ministries supports House Bill 1589 and its efforts to eliminate barriers to preventive healthcare and family planning services.

Ray Lopez Wins Race for Texas House District 125

Ray Lopez (D-San Antonio) won the special election runoff for House District 125 to replace former State Representative Justin Rodriguez who vacated the seat to accept the two-year appointment of Bexar County Commissioner. This will be Lopez’ third political office after spending eight years on the San Antonio City Council and almost a decade as a trustee for the Northside Independent School District. Methodist Healthcare Ministries congratulates Representative-Elect Lopez on his appointment and looks forward to working with him to improve the health and wellness of the residents of District 125.

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Mar 19: Senate Education Committee Hearing – Children’s Health (Austin)

Mar 19: House Human Services Committee Hearing (Austin)

Mar 19: Senate Health & Human Services Committee Hearing (Austin)

Mar 19: House Insurance Committee Hearing (Austin)

Mar 19: Conference on Interpersonal Violence and Trauma – Sponsored by Methodist Healthcare Ministries (Edinburg)

Mar 20: House Public Health Committee Hearing (Austin)

Mar 20: House Juvenile Justice & Family Issues Committee Hearing (Austin)

Mar 20: House Higher Education Committee Hearing (Austin)

Mar 20: Senate Higher Education Committee Hearing (Austin)

Mar 21: House Corrections Committee Hearing (Austin)

Mar 21: House County Affairs Committee Hearing (Austin)

Mar 21: House Urban Affairs Committee Hearing (Austin)

Mar 22: Bexar County Mental Health Consortium Meeting (San Antonio)

Mar 28: Texas Impact Advocacy Day (Austin)

Mar 30: SASH Spring Thing 5K – Sponsored by Methodist Healthcare Ministries (San Antonio)

Apr 2: Immunization Advocacy and Rally Day – Sponsored by Methodist Healthcare Ministries (Austin)

Apr 15-15: Texas Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy’s 8th Annual Symposium (Austin)

For more information on health care research, policy or advocacy,please contact Chris Yanas at cyanas@mhm.org.

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Legislative Update, March 8

In this issue:

Upcoming Meetings & Events

View our 2019 Legislative Agenda

Advocacy

Bill Tracking

Research

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________

State Updates

Methodist Healthcare Ministries Sponsors Healthcare “Let the People Vote!” Rally

“Let the People Vote!” Rally
March 4th, 2019

On Monday, health care advocates from across the state gathered at the Texas Capitol to urge state lawmakers to allow voters to decide whether Texas should expand the state’s Medicaid program. Nearly two dozen Texas organizations came together for the Texas Rally, sponsored in part by Methodist Healthcare Ministries, to support Senate Bill 524 by Senator Nathan Johnson (D-Dallas), House Bill 590 by Representative Celia Israel (D-Austin), House Bill 840 and House Joint Resolution 46 by Representative John Bucy (D-Austin) to place Medicaid expansion language on the ballot in Texas.

Texas is one of 14 states that chose not to expand Medicaid to cover additional populations of needy adults under the Affordable Care Act. Currently, Texas Medicaid covers low-income adults who are pregnant, children, seniors in long-term living facilities and Texans with severe disabilities or near-death illnesses. There are also a small number of parents earning less than $320 a month who also qualify. Should voters support federal funding for expansion, over 1 million Texans would become eligible to receive affordable health insurance.

A recent poll by the Episcopal Health Foundation revealed that 64 percent of Texans promote a statewide Medicaid expansion. Methodist Healthcare Ministries strongly supports increasing access to health insurance for our communities.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries Leads Healthcare Advocacy Efforts for VIVA San Antonio Chamber’s Day at the Capitol 

Members of the San Antonio Chamber’s Healthcare and Bioscience Committee with Lexi O’Hair, Policy Analyst for Senator Jose Menendez (D-San Antonio)

Methodist Healthcare Ministries led healthcare advocacy efforts for the VIVA San Antonio Chambers of Commerce Day at the Capitol on Tuesday, March 5. Members of the Chambers’ Healthcare Committees met with legislative staff from Representative Trey Martinez Fischer (D-San Antonio), Senator Donna Campbell (R-New Braunfels), Senator Jose Menendez (D-San Antonio), Representative Philip Cortez (D-San Antonio), Representative Senfronia Thompson (D-Houston) and Representative Steve Allison (R-San Antonio) on healthcare issues impacting the residents of San Antonio and Bexar County.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ Department of Policy and Advocacy staff educated policymakers on the need to improve access to health coverage for an estimated 300,000 uninsured adults in Bexar County and the importance of funding for the full reconstruction of the San Antonio State Hospital, as well as the need to create the necessary number of graduate medical education (GME) residency slots to keep our medical school graduates in Texas.

The group also asked legislators to support state agencies’ requests for substance use funding for all Texans, especially the most vulnerable populations. Methodist Healthcare Ministries appreciates the opportunity to lead San Antonio businesses and local government organizations on legislation affecting health care for San Antonio.

House Insurance Committee hears testimony on Health Care Expansion Bill

On Tuesday, Methodist Healthcare Ministries provided written testimony to the House Insurance Committee in support of House Bill 565 by Representative Garnet Coleman (D-Houston) to expand Medicaid coverage up to 100 percent of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and protect individuals with pre-existing conditions. It is estimated that close to 700,000 low-wage Texans continue to fall into the “coverage gap” – these are individuals who do not have employer-sponsored coverage, earn too little to qualify for health insurance subsidies through the federal healthcare exchange programs and do not qualify for Medicaid coverage. HB 565 would help close the coverage gap by allowing individuals below the 100 percent FPL to receive Medicaid benefits through a sliding scale subsidy to purchase a health benefit plan.

To support a strong health care infrastructure, Texas must increase access for uninsured residents through affordable health coverage, especially for our families below 100 percent of the FPL. It is essential for the State to invest in public health programs that protect and improve the health of vulnerable Texans by supporting statewide initiatives that secure access to providers and services for our families. HB 565 was left pending in the committee by Chairman Eddie Lucio, III (D-Brownsville).

State Clubhouses Seek Increased State Funding for Services

Clubhouses across Texas, including the San Antonio Clubhouse, are requesting an increase in state funding from $1.7 million to $5 million for the 2020-2021 biennium to expand the clubhouse delivery model across the State. The Clubhouse model is an evidence-based, recovery-oriented program for adults diagnosed with a mental illness to improve their ability to function successfully in the community through a peer-focused environment. The 85thLegislature designated $1.7 million for 14 certified Clubhouses in Texas, however, mental health stakeholders are seeking an additional $3.3 million to increase access to these services in more Texas communities.

Clubhouses provide a caring, supportive community and meaningful work to individuals living with mental illness to avoid crises that often result in hospitalization or incarceration. The evidence-based model surrounds the person with a community of peers and programs that helps them thrive in the community. Clubhouses can save $2,650 a day in hospitalization and jail prevention costs for local communities. Increased funding for the expansion of Clubhouse facilities is a legislative priority for Methodist Healthcare Ministries, which also supports and financially invests in the San Antonio Clubhouse facility and programs.

Texas Legislature Moves Forward with Healthcare Workforce Bills 

The Texas House and Senate voted to progress legislation this week that would improve the healthcare workforce in the State. On Tuesday, the Senate Chamber approved Senate Bill 10, by Senator Jane Nelson (R-Flower Mound), which addresses child psychiatric workforce issues by establishing a Child Psychiatry Access Program (CPAP) at health-related institutions to provide telemedicine and telehealth services for pediatricians and primary care providers throughout the state.

On Wednesday, the House Higher Education Committee voted House Bill 80, by Representative Lina Ortega (D-El Paso), out of the committee to be considered on the House floor. HB 80 would require the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to conduct a study on statewide and regional shortages in health professions, focusing on doctoral degrees such as physicians, nursing, psychology and dentistry. The House Higher Education Committee also considered House Bill 1065, by Representative Trent Ashby (R-Lufkin), to establish a Rural Resident Physician Grant Program to encourage new graduate medical education (GME) positions in rural and nonmetropolitan areas.

Texas’ rapid population growth places unparalleled demand on its healthcare workforce, ultimately diminishing access to care for all residents. To make matters worse, the provider workforce is disproportionally distributed across Texas with more than 57 percent of the state’s physicians practicing in the five most populous counties, despite only representing 44 percent of the population. These bills would bolster the healthcare workforce and increase access to care for Texans living in rural communities. Methodist Healthcare Ministries supports legislation to incentivize and support healthcare providers to serve in areas with limited access to health care treatment, notably in our state’s rural communities.

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Mar 11: Senate State Affairs: Guardianship and Healthcare Workforce (Austin)

Mar 11: House Appropriations: Budget Riders (Austin)

Mar 11: Senate Finance: Supplemental Appropriations (Austin)

Mar 12: House Appropriations: salary requests and Capital Needs (Austin)

Mar 28: Texas Impact Advocacy Day (Austin)

Mar 30: SASH Spring Thing 5K– Sponsored by Methodist Healthcare Ministries (San Antonio)

Apr 2: Immunization Advocacy and Rally Day– Sponsored by Methodist Healthcare Ministries (Austin)

For more information on health care research, policy or advocacy,please contact Chris Yanas at cyanas@mhm.org.

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Legislative Update, March 1

In this issue:

Upcoming Meetings & Events

View our 2019 Legislative Agenda

Advocacy

Bill Tracking

Research

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________

State Updates

Rep. Trey Martinez-Fischer Convenes San Antonio Meeting with House Budget Chair John Zerwas and local leaders

Bexar Legislative Delegation members meet with House Budget Chair John Zerwas in San Antonio to share top funding priorities.

Rep. Trey Martinez-Fischer (D – San Antonio) convened a meeting Friday, Feb. 22., for local Bexar officials and business leaders, providing them with an opportunity to share their top legislative priorities with House Appropriations Chair John Zerwas (R – Richmond). County Judge Nelson Wolff and Mayor Ron Nirenberg welcomed Chair Zerwas and focused their remarks on the potential harm that would come to local government if Senate Bill 2 were to pass. SB 2 by Senator Paul Bettencourt (R – Houston), would limit the amount of revenue that local governments like cities, counties and special districts can collect without voter approval.

Specific to issues impacting Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ work on mental health, healthcare stakeholders asked for Chair Zerwas’ support to fund the construction of a new San Antonio State Hospital, estimated to cost roughly $300 million. Local mental health providers were instrumental in securing $14.5 million in 2017 to develop the plans for a new SASH facility and delivery system that serves a 54-county catchment area. Other issues brought forward included funding for public and higher education, medical schools and family protective services.

House Human Services Committee Discusses SNAP Work Requirements

This week, the House Human Services Committee heard testimony on House Bill 285 by Representative Drew Springer (R-Muenster), prohibiting work exemptions for adults without dependents in the SNAP program. Currently, adults without children who are not able to work can receive SNAP benefits for up to three months every three years, but federal regulations allow states to waive this time limit in areas where jobs are not available. The bill would remove Texas’ waiver of the time limit and require all adults to receive job training and work for at least 30 hours a week.

The Center for Public Policy Priorities (CPPP), expressed concerns about the bill and how it could lead to higher rates of hunger by ending Texas’ flexibility in SNAP assistance to respond to disasters, local workforce conditions and needs of special groups, such as former foster care children. Young adults aging out of the foster system often struggle to find work and report high rates of hunger. HB 285 would prevent the state from aiding these young adults while they are looking for work. Methodist Healthcare Ministries supports public policies that work to reduce hunger for our neediest families, especially for those in rural and underserved communities.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries Supports School Mental Health Bills 

Methodist Healthcare Ministries weighed in favorably on several bills in Tuesday’s House Public Education hearing that would increase mental health resources for students. Representative Shawn Thierry (D-Houston) laid out House Bill 198, which would permissively allow school-based health centers to provide mental health resources and services, and House Bill 204, which would include mental health in the required curriculum for public school students. Additionally, Methodist Healthcare Ministries supported House Bill 129, by Representative Diego Bernal (D-San Antonio), and House Bill 239, by Representative Jessica Farrar (D- Houston) which would increase mental health workforce in schools. HB 129 would require schools with 90 percent economically disadvantaged students to have at least one social worker or counselor on campus and HB 239 would allow social workers to provide services in schools.

One in five Texas school children live with a mental health condition such as depression or anxiety, but over 60 percent of students do not receive the mental health treatment they need. These bills would increase access to mental health services in school settings and help students address mental health challenges to improve grades, behavior, health and safety. Methodist Healthcare Ministries strongly supports legislation that enhances mental health services and support programs for students.

House Appropriations Subcommittee Adopts Healthcare Budget Items

The Texas House Appropriations Subcommittee on Article II met this past week to adopt funding requests for several exceptional items brought forward by the state’s health care agencies. The committee adopted the Health and Human Services Commission’s (HHSC) request to provide an additional $72.6 million for Early Childhood Intervention (ECI), an additional $88.13 million for caseload and cost growth in Women’s Health Programs, an increase of $45.7 million to expand substance use treatment and an additional $3.5 million for housing and case management support for individuals with disabilities.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries appreciates the efforts of Chairwoman Sarah Davis (R-Houston) and members of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Article II, including Rep. Philip Cortez (D-San Antonio), to ensure adequate funding is allocated for Texas’ most vulnerable populations such as children, women and individuals with mental illness.

El Paso Lawmaker Proposes Texas Health Care Workforce Study

Representative Lina Ortega (D-El Paso) presented House Bill 80 in the House Higher Education Committee Hearing Wednesday, Feb. 27, which would require the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to conduct a study that would identify statewide and regional shortages in health professions, with emphasis on shortages in professions with doctoral degrees. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board would make recommendations on new and existing programs to meet the increased need for health professionals in a report to the Legislature by December 1, 2023.

Currently, Texas only meets 55 percent of the needed primary care workforce, 46.3 percent of the needed dental workforce and 35.5 percent of the needed mental health workforce. Adding to the shortage is the 34 percent of primary care physicians and 60 percent of psychiatrists who will be past retirement age by 2025.

If passed, HB 80 would allow the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to understand statewide and regional shortages and find solutions to mitigate the effects going forward. Supporting legislation that improves Texas’ healthcare workforce shortages in rural and underserved areas is a legislative priority for Methodist Healthcare Ministries.

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Mar 4: Let the People Vote! Texas Rally for Medicaid Expansion (Austin)

Mar 4: House Defense and Veterans’ Affairs Committee Hearing – Mental Health (Austin)

Mar 4: House Appropriations Committee Hearing – Regulatory Agencies (Austin)

Mar 4: House Appropriations S/C Infrastructure, Resiliency & Investment (Austin)

Mar 4: House Defense and Veterans’ Affairs – Mental Health (Austin)

Mar 5: Viva San Antonio Legislative Day at the Capitol (Austin)

Mar 5: House Human Services Hearing (Austin)

Mar 5: Health Insurance Committee Hearing – Healthcare (Austin)

Mar 6: Recovery Day at the Capitol (Austin)

Mar 6: Senate Higher Education Hearing (Austin)

Mar 6: Texans Care for Children’s 13thAnnual Founders Luncheon (Austin)

Mar 7: House Appropriations Hearing (Austin)

Mar 28: Texas Impact Advocacy Day (Austin)

Mar 30: SASH Spring Thing 5K (San Antonio)

Apr 2: Immunization Advocacy and Rally Day (Austin)

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Legislative Update, February 22

Legislative Updates

Upcoming Meetings & Events

View our 2019 Legislative Agenda

Advocacy

Bill Tracking

Research

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Legislative Updates

San Antonio Health Care Stakeholders Advocate for San Antonio State Hospital Funding

San Antonio State Hospital Stakeholders with Senator Pete Flores (R-Pleasanton) at the Texas Capitol in Austin, Texas

Methodist Healthcare Ministries led efforts this week at the state Capitol to promote reconstruction funding for the San Antonio State Hospital (SASH), estimated to cost $323 million. Jaime Wesolowski, CEO, and Tony LoBasso, CFO, of Methodist Healthcare Ministries joined University Health System, Clarity Child Guidance Center, The Center for Health Care Services, NAMI San Antonio, Haven for Hope and the Bexar County Mental Health Department in a discussion with Senator Pete Flores (R-Pleasanton), who sits on the powerful Senate Finance Committee, to discuss the significance of the new hospital and its value for the thousands of South Texas residents who suffer from severe mental illness. The Senate has currently allocated $300 million for state hospital construction in their supplemental budget bill.

During the 85thInterim, the SASH Executive Stakeholder Committee worked tirelessly to look at the physical replacement of SASH and examine how care would be integrated into the community through enhanced mental health crisis/response services. The Committee collaborated with eight Local Mental Health Authorities throughout SASH’s 54-county catchment area to understand the appropriate roles and functions of a redesigned SASH, current pathways to SASH and barriers to access for both adults and adolescents. The final report of findings was submitted to HHSC in January 2019, where it was reviewed by the agency staff for final submission to the 86th Legislature.

Full reconstruction funds for the San Antonio State Hospital is a legislative priority for Methodist Healthcare Ministries and members of the SASH Executive Committee. During the 86th Legislative Session, Methodist Healthcare Ministries will work with state leaders and stakeholders to ensure funding for SASH is appropriated, along with transition services and increased funding for staff recruitment and retention efforts.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries Testifies in House Appropriations Hearings

Methodist Healthcare Ministries testified to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Article II on budget issues related to access to health coverage, behavioral health funding and women and children’s health. Chris Yanas, MHM’s Director of Governmental Affairs, stressed the importance of funding the reconstruction of the San Antonio State Hospital, along with salary increases for competitive recruitment and retention of hospital personnel, to operate a state-of-the-art facility that will enhance the recovery of thousands of South Texans in SASH’s 54-county service area. Testimony also included support to sustain the state’s mental health grant programs and increasing services for behavioral health and substance use disorders.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries, along with several other advocates, urged legislators to provide adequate resources for continuity of care for all Texans, including funding for 12-month continuous eligibility for children in the Medicaid program and the extension of postpartum women in the Medicaid program from 60 days to 12 months postpartum. Recommendations also included increased funding for women’s health programs to promote auto-enrollment from children aging out of the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) into the Healthy Texas Women program. Methodist Healthcare Ministries will continue to submit written and oral testimony during the session on priority issues impacting the health and wellness of its 74-county service area, especially rural communities.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries Supports Children’s Mental Health Legislation

Last week, Methodist Healthcare Ministries submitted testimony in support of Senate Bill 10 by Senator Jane Nelson (R-Flower Mound), relating to the creation of the Texas Mental Health Consortium within the Texas Higher Educating Coordinating Board. With one in five Texans estimated to be impacted by a mental illness, meeting the health care needs of the population requires a coordinated system that is effective and appropriate. The development of the consortium would promote state mental health initiatives and coordinate research efforts at 12 health-related academic centers of higher education across the state.

Senate Bill 10 would also direct the consortium to create a Child Psychiatry Access Program (CPAP) to enable pediatricians and primary care providers to consult with psychiatrists at Texas medical schools for guidance and expertise. The bill would look to reduce the psychiatry workforce shortage through the Behavioral Health Workforce Expansion Project, increase psychiatric residency training and promote the use of telemedicine to expand access to mental health services. Lastly, the bill would provide judicial instruction on mental health resources, which is critical at reducing the number of youths with a mental illness from entering the criminal justice system. Senate Bill 10 was voted out of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee and placed on the Senate Intent Calendar for Monday, Feb. 25.

With about 1.9 million youths in Texas in need of behavioral health services by the age of 14, access to early treatment is imperative. Methodist Healthcare Ministries supports the passage of Senate Bill 10, aimed at leveraging the expertise of health-related universities to improve the quality and availability of mental health services, improving access to early identification and access to treatment, addressing the psychiatry workforce shortage and strengthening judicial training on mental health.

Houston Lawmaker Files Bill on Adolescent Behavioral Health Research 

Texas House Public Health Committee Chairwoman Senfronia Thompson (D-Houston) filed House Bill 10 to create the Texas Mental and Behavioral Health Research Institute to be funded with voter approved bonds. HB 10 increases the number of child and adolescent psychiatrists and specialized nurses across the state, creates a telemedicine program to rapidly connect pediatricians and school health providers with trained mental health providers and creates the Texas Mental and Behavioral Health Research Institute that will focus on research to develop cures and treatments.

With more than 200 counties in Texas without a single child and adolescent psychiatrist, the legislation will create grants to incentivize newly graduated doctors and advanced practice nurses to specialize in the field. Additionally, the bill would establish a Child Psychiatric Access Line (CPAL) for mental and behavioral health care services through academic partnerships and peer-to-peer consultations. HB 10 will place Texas on the leading edge in discovering mental and behavioral health treatments through programs that research all aspects of mental health, from the brain’s structure to public health trends and medical interventions. The bill was referred to the House Public Health Committee Feb. 19 where it awaits a hearing.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries strongly supports HB 10, which will guide Texas to be a leader in addressing child and adolescent mental health issues through research, workforce development and mental health care targeted at our youth.

State Officials Confirm Measles Outbreak in Texas 

The Texas Department of State Health Services reported eight cases of measles across Texas counties, including Bell, Denton, Harris, Galveston and Montgomery. U.S. health officials declared the disease was eradicated in 2000 due to the development of the measles vaccine; however recent declines in vaccination rates have put Texas communities at risk. The highly contagious disease can result in brain damage, deafness and even death, urging health authorities to promote vaccination as the most effective method to prevent the illness.

The Public Health Dynamics Laboratory created a modeling system to demonstrate the outcome if a single student with measles attends school in a given county or metropolitan area. If the measles vaccination rate fell by 10 percent, in a worst-case scenario, the number of infections could potentially increase to 12,230 cases in San Antonio, 9,103 cases in McAllen, 6, 676 cases in Laredo, 1,498 cases in Victoriaand 3,673 cases in Corpus Christi. Supporting policies and legislation that protect all Texans from vaccine-preventable diseases is a top legislative priority for Methodist Healthcare Ministries.

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Feb. 25:HHSC: State Medicaid Managed Care Advisory Committee (Austin)

Feb. 28: HHSC: Texas Statewide Health Coordinating Council (Austin)

Mar 1: HHSC: E-Health Advisory Committee (Austin)

Mar 1:San Antonio Substance Use Symposium (San Antonio)

Mar 4: Let the People Vote! Texas Rally for Medicaid Expansion (Austin)

Mar 5: Viva San Antonio Legislative Day at the Capitol (Austin)

Mar 6: Recovery Day at the Capitol (Austin)

Mar 6: Texans Care for Children’s 13thAnnual Founders Luncheon (Austin)

Mar 30: SASH Spring Thing 5K (San Antonio)

Back to Top

Legislative Update, February 15

Legislative Updates

Upcoming Meetings & Events

View our 2019 Legislative Agenda

Advocacy

Bill Tracking

Research

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Legislative Updates

Methodist Healthcare Ministries Leads Healthcare Visits for San Antonio Chambers’ Annual SA to DC trip

Dr. Penn Wickersham and Jaime Wesolowski meet with United States Navy Vice Admiral Raquel Bono in Washington, D.C. February 5th, 2019

Methodist Healthcare Ministries traveled to Washington, D.C. this past week with more than 180 members of San Antonio’s local business chambers to advocate for health coverage and graduate medical education funding, among other key issues impacting San Antonio businesses and local government organizations. Dr. Pendleton Wickersham, board member and Chair of the Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ Policy subcommittee, and Jaime Wesolowski, president and CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries were joined by MHM’s Department of Policy & Advocacy staff as they met with members of the Bexar County congressional delegation and Senate Finance Committee staff to share concerns with the lack of affordable health coverage for low-income families and the need for funded graduate medical education residency training slots. The group also expressed its gratitude to congressional leaders for federal funding for substance use treatment that has recently been awarded to Bexar County mental health providers.

The San Antonio delegation had the opportunity to hear from House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco), House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Bakersfield) and several San Antonio congressmen on critical healthcare and immigration issues affecting our country. Speaker Pelosi acknowledged the high cost of prescription drugs, stating that finding solutions to reduce these costs is a high priority for House leadership. Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D-San Antonio) expressed the need to increase funding to train healthcare personnel, noting Texas ranks 41st in the nation for physician to population ratio. He discussed his efforts to find bipartisan support to correct deficiencies within the Affordable Care Act, and protect key provisions that have served families well, such as covering individuals with pre-existing conditions.

The four-day trip to the nation’s Capitol by the large San Antonio delegation provided opportunities for key discussions and potential public/private collaborative opportunities. Methodist Healthcare Ministries staff has also been selected to lead chamber healthcare advocates for the upcoming Viva San Antonio Chamber Day at the Capitol coming up on March 5.

Governor Greg Abbott Prioritizes Mental Health

Texas Governor Greg Abbott focused on issues impacting mental health in schools in his State of the State Address this past Tuesday, setting the tone for his priority issues this legislative session. In his address to both chambers of the Legislature, the governor declared Senate Bill 10 by Senator Nelson (R- Flower Mound) an emergency item, which would allow academic institutions to collaborate on statewide mental health needs and increase access to behavioral health services for students.

Governor Abbott’s emergency designation allows legislators to take action on bills deemed a priority within the first 60 days. His other emergency items include school finance, property tax reform, school safety and disaster response. While it was not termed an emergency item, Governor Abbott also urged lawmakers to provide more mental health resources for veterans. As part of its 86th Legislative Agenda, Methodist Healthcare Ministries supports initiatives such as Senate Bill 10 to build upon mental health services for children and promote collaboration among medical schools that will address the mental health workforce shortage in Texas, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Senate Finance Committee Evaluates State Healthcare Funding

The Texas Senate Finance Committee met last week to discuss the current healthcare funding needs for Texas’ neediest residents. Dr. Courtney Phillips, Executive Commissioner of the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) noted how 81 percent of the agency’s appropriations were spent on client services within the state’s Medicaid program. Newly elected Senator Pete Flores (R-San Antonio) took the opportunity to voice his support for state funding for the reconstruction of a new San Antonio State Hospital (SASH) facility and the addition of beds to address the current waitlist for services.

Several healthcare advocates testified on the significance of adequate funding for state services. Children’s advocacy organizations pointed to recent studies that indicated an increase in the number of uninsured children, a sobering concern, given that Texas already leads the nation with the highest percentage of uninsured children. They also asked senators to support Medicaid funding that would allow children to have 12 months of continuous coverage, a legislative priority for Methodist Healthcare Ministries. Several testimonies recommended funding for behavioral health services and women’s health services. Methodist Healthcare Ministries will continue to advocate for sufficient funding for the state’s healthcare services and its impact on our communities.

Texas Lawmaker Files Bill to Address Adverse Childhood Experiences

Representative Tan Parker (R-Flower Mound) filed HB 822 which would develop a five-year strategic plan to prevent and address Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). The multiagency effort would include strategies to train and educate professionals on how to assess and treat ACEs, provide trauma-informed practices and develop parental support programs.

Representative Parker invited San Antonio community members, Christine Bryan, VP of Information Technology and Public Policy at Clarity Child Guidance Center, and Dr. Colleen Bridger, Director of San Antonio Metropolitan Health District, to take part in a stakeholder roundtable and provide recommendations on key provisions of the bill. The input will be used to develop a committee substitute once the bill secures a hearing. Mitigating the effects of ACEs is a priority for San Antonio children’s advocates, including Methodist Healthcare Ministries. In 2018, there were over 11,000 domestic violence cases in San Antonio alone.

House Appropriations Committee Receives Update on State Mental Health Hospitals

Mike Maples, Deputy Executive Commissioner of Health & Specialty Care System at Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), provided an update to the House Appropriations Committee about decreasing the waitlist for mental health services in Texas through reconstruction of state inpatient mental health facilities, including San Antonio State Hospital. Mr. Maples noted that the Legislature would need to appropriate $323 million to reconstruct the 300-bed facility on the southside of San Antonio.

Texas inpatient mental health facilities have a high number of medically complex patients who need more structure than community services, but not as significant as state hospitals. The state lacks step-down or transitional options for these patients, which increases their length of stay and ties up capacity at state hospitals. HHSC is developing tiered residential transition options for these patients, as well as revising statutes related to forensic admissions in order to reduce the waitlists for the hospitals. Additionally, Mr. Maples expressed the need to fully fund HHSC’s exceptional item to increase salary for hospital staff $350 by position, which is vital for operation. During the 86th Legislative Session, Methodist Healthcare Ministries will educate lawmakers on the importance of full funding of San Antonio State Hospital and support transition services and salary increases at state hospitals.

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Feb 19: House Appropriations Subcommittee Article III Hearing – GME Funding (Austin)

Feb 19: House Appropriations Subcommittee Article III Hearing – Medical Institutions (Austin)

Feb 21-22: THA 2019 Annual Conference and Expo (Austin)

Mar 30: SASH Spring Thing 5K (San Antonio)

Back to Top

Legislative Update, February 1

Legislative Updates

Upcoming Meetings & Events

View our 2019 Legislative Agenda

Advocacy

Bill Tracking

Research

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Legislative Updates

Methodist Healthcare Ministries Hosts Capitol Staff Lunch & Learn on SASH Redesign Project

This past Friday, Methodist Healthcare Ministries hosted a luncheon for Capitol staff members to share the latest information on the San Antonio State Hospital planning project, including the release of the final report, and efforts to secure an estimated $300 million for the construction of a new facility this session. 

Joining the Ministries to present an overview of the work done by the SASH Redesign Executive Committee were Clarity Child Guidance Center, The Center for Health Care Services and Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute. In 2017, Texas lawmakers implemented a three-phased approach to modernize state inpatient mental health facilities and allocate sufficient funding for the eventual construction of a new San Antonio State Hospital, all efforts to reduce chronic waitlists for beds and improve access to behavioral health services in SASH’s 54 county catchment area. The 2018 SASH final report was shared with legislative offices whose districts rely on services from the state hospital and includes feedback from the nine Local Mental Health Authorities on how SASH’s delivery system could be redesigned to serve the needs of their communities. 

This session, the Senate has currently identified $300 million for state hospital construction in its initial budget. Design plans recently released by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission estimate roughly $323 million would be needed for the reconstruction of a 296-bed psychiatric facility in San Antonio. The House’s preliminary budget does not currently include funds for state hospital construction, however Representative John Zerwas (R-Richmond), who chairs the House budget committee, noted in his opening comments this week that it is an important issue for members and will likely address in upcoming hearings. Securing the necessary funds for a new SASH facility is a top priority for Methodist Healthcare Ministries this session. Members of Policy & Advocacy team are meeting with legislators and their staff to educate them on its importance and need for full funding of the project. 

United Methodist Women meet in Austin to Advocate for Child and Maternal Health

Over 180 United Methodist women visited Texas lawmakers this week to educate them on policies that are needed to increase access to health insurance for women and children. The 2019 Legislative Event was held in Austin this week and sponsored by Methodist Healthcare Ministries.

Attendees learned about several initiatives related to healthcare coverage during a panel session with Patrick Bresette, Executive Director of Children’s Defense Fund Texas, and Representative Shawn Thierry (D-Houston), who explained how lack of access to quality healthcare can negatively impact a person’s well-being. They highlighted bills that would expand medical assistance for children and postpartum women, such as HB 342 by Representative Philip Cortez (D-San Antonio) that would authorize 12-month continuous eligibility for children’s Medicaid and HB 411 by Representative Thierry that proposed to extend Medicaid for postpartum women from 60 days to 12 months.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries strongly supports policy solutions, such as HB 342 and HB 411, which extend health coverage for women and children, therefore reducing maternal mortality and the high uninsured rate of children in Texas.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries Raises Awareness For Cardiovascular Health

On Wednesday, Methodist Healthcare Ministries joined the American Heart Association in promoting policies to improve cardiovascular health. Heart advocates urged legislators to support HB 749, more commonly known as Tobacco 21, by Representative John Zerwas (R-Richmond) to raise the minimum legal sale age of all tobacco products from 18 to 21. The group also educated lawmakers on policies that would update minimum standards for nutrition and fitness in daycare centers, ensure basic consumer protections for short-term health insurance plans and create a statewide pilot program that would double SNAP beneficiaries’ purchasing power for fresh produce. As part of its 2019 Legislative Agenda, Methodist Healthcare Ministries supports the American Heart Association’s policies that improve cardiovascular health through tougher tobacco laws, updated nutrition standards for daycares and incentivizing SNAP recipients to make healthier choices. 

Cancer Action Network Requests Sustainable Funding for CPRIT

Methodist Healthcare Ministries has joined the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) in efforts to secure sustainable funding for the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT). HB 39 and HJR 12 by Representative John Zerwas (R-Richmond) authorize public approval of $3 billion in bonds in the state’s next general election and remove the Institute’s restriction to award new grants for 2023 and beyond. 

To date, CPRIT has invested $2.17 billion in cancer research, product development and prevention to enhance Texas’ competitive edge in the global fight against cancer. Without funding reauthorization, the state would lose access to prevention services especially those in rural and medically under-served areas. As a member of ACS CAN, Methodist Healthcare Ministries supports HB 39 and HJR 12 to ensure Texas remains a leader in the fight against cancer.

Healthcare in Rural Texas At Risk

A report conducted last year by the Episcopal Health Foundation and Texas A&M Rural and Community Health Initiatives reveals healthcare challenges in rural communities in the state. Out of the 254 counties in Texas, 35 counties lack physicians and 185 counties do not have access to a psychiatrist. Adding to these concerns is the closing of more than 20 hospitals in Texas, due to financial issues and lack of leadership recruitment.

Healthcare advocates propose the need to create innovative solutions, connecting telehealth and new types of healthcare workers with potential partnerships and healthcare delivery tools. HB 870 by Representative Price (R-Amarillo) requires managed care organizations to reimburse for telemedicine or telehealth services. In 2017, Methodist Healthcare Ministries supported legislation that expanded and funded telehealth programs and services, especially for rural counties, and will continue to support these policy changes this session. 

House Appropriations Committee Initiates Budget Review Hearings

The House Appropriations Committee began hearings this week to review their proposed budget, HB 1, as filed, with the Legislative Budget Board (LBB). The LBB provided an overview of Medicaid, statewide behavioral health services, child protective services, Hurricane Harvey’s fiscal impact on state agencies and state debt, among other priority issues. Representative John Zerwas (R-Richmond) reiterated that there is an overall increase of Medicaid funds due to higher matching rate from the federal government, easing state demand on the program.

The House budget allocates $7.48 billion in behavioral health services across 23 agencies, including $1.3 billion for community mental health services and $435.7 million for substance use services. Mental health services also received support via the Texas Education Agency through $12 million in state funds for Mental Health First Aid training, telemedicine, trauma-informed care, coordination of access to mental health providers and positive school culture programs. Securing adequate funding for mental health programs and services is a top priority for Methodist Healthcare Ministries this session.

 

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Feb 4: Texas School Health Advisory Committee Meeting (Austin)

Feb 4: House Appropriations Committee Hearing: School Safety (Austin)

Feb 5: Senate Finance Committee Hearing: Article II – Health and Human Services (Austin)

Feb 5: Policy Council for Children and Families (Austin)

Feb 5: House Appropriations Committee Hearing: Correctional Managed Health Care and School Safety (Austin)

Feb 6: Senate Finance Committee Hearing: Article II – Health and Human Services Public Testimony (Austin)

Feb 6: House Appropriations Committee Hearing: Medicaid, HHSC Contracting, State Hospitals and CPS (Austin)

Feb 6: NAMI Texas: Mental Health Capitol Day Rally and Advocacy Training (Austin)

Feb 7: Texans Care for Children: Providing Kids a Healthy Start (Austin)

Feb 7: Texas Tribune: A Conversation With New Democratic Members of the Texas House (Austin)

Feb 7: Hospital Payment Advisory Committee (Austin)

Feb 11: Senate Finance Committee Hearing: Article III – Public Education (Austin)

Feb 12: Senate Finance Committee Hearing: Article III – Higher Education (Austin)

Feb 13: Senate Finance Committee Hearing: Article III – Higher Education (Austin)

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Legislative Update, January 25th

Legislative Updates

Upcoming Meetings & Events

View our 2019 Legislative Agenda

Advocacy

Bill Tracking

Research

 

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Legislative Updates

Speaker Bonnen Appoints House Committees

Texas House Speaker Dennis Bonnen (R-Angleton) released House Committee assignments for the 86th Legislative Session this week, appointing new leadership to oversee the lower chamber’s 34 powerful committees. While Speaker Bonnen retained Representative John Zerwas (R-Richmond) to chair the Appropriations Committee, he selected Representative Senfronia Thompson (D-Houston) as the new Chair of the Public Health Committee and Representative James Frank (R-Wichita Falls) to lead the Human Services Committee for the first time. Former Public Health Chairman, Representative Four Price (R-Amarillo) was awarded with the Chair of the powerful House Calendars Committee, which controls the bills that are formally considered on the House floor. The session will begin to pick up the pace now as legislation begins to be referred to the respective committees for discussion over the next two weeks. 

Senate Finance Committee Kicks Off Budget Hearings

The Texas Senate Finance Committee did not waste any time to start its review of the proposed budget, scheduling hearings to take testimony on all state agencies over the next three weeks. On Tuesday, the committee held its first meeting to outline the hearings schedule and review the projected state revenue estimates from Texas Comptroller Glen Hegar. Comptroller Hegar warned senators to remain cautiously optimistic about the state’s growth rate over the coming year, due to the fluctuation in oil prices and sales tax revenue.

During the hearing, Chair Nelson (R-Flower Mound) addressed critical funding issues related to school safety and state hospitals, as well as the Medicaid shortfall and Hurricane Harvey expenses in her supplemental bill, Senate Bill 500. The bill, as filed, includes $300 million for state hospital construction through the Economic Stabilization Fund and $2.1 billion in state funds to cover the Medicaid shortfall. Methodist Healthcare Ministries’ legislative priorities include securing sufficient funding for the construction of a new San Antonio State Hospital and programs that will increase access to healthcare services for our communities.

Federal Court Rules Against Planned Parenthood in Texas

A federal appeals court has lifted the order that blocked Texas from excluding Planned Parenthood out of the Women’s Health Program. In February 2017, U.S. District Judge Sam Sparks ruled the state could not block Planned Parenthood from the federal-state insurance program, after edited videos were publicly released claiming the organization had sold fetal tissue for profit. The order by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals declared Judge Sparks had used the wrong standard by not considering the findings of the Texas Office of Inspector General, the agency that initially made the decision to terminate state contracts with Planned Parenthood.

In 2016, Planned Parenthood received $3.5 million in reimbursements for providing contraceptives and women’s preventive healthcare services to 70,000 low-income Texans. Organization officials state the federal appeals court’s decision threatens the healthcare of Texas’ most vulnerable patients, noting the decline in access to women’s health services will put their health in jeopardy. Attorney General Ken Paxton, whose office fought the case against Judge Sparks, defended the order in court and was confident the state would prevail when the case returns to the U.S. District Court. Methodist Healthcare Ministries is monitoring the case throughout the legal process, noting its importance to provide access to quality women’s healthcare services.

Texas’ ACA Enrollment Drops 3.6 Percent

Texas’ 2019 enrollment in the Affordable Care Act’s health insurance plans dropped 3.6 percent from last year’s enrollment period. An estimated 1.09 million Texans signed up through the federal marketplace during the open enrollment period, compared to 1.13 million people who enrolled last year. On a national level, marketplace enrollment decreased by 4 percent.

Several advocates expressed concern that contradicting messages and funding cuts prevented consumers from signing up for health insurance. The federal administration significantly reduced funding for the marketplace and enrollment outreach support two years in a row. Moreover, lawsuits and attempts by Congress to repeal the Affordable Care Act worked to confuse consumers about the fate of the law. Methodist Healthcare Ministries provided funding for ads and marketing this past enrollment period to ensure consumers were aware of the available health plan coverage for eligible families. 

State Agencies Launch Opioid Education Website

The Office of the Texas Attorney General, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, and the Texas Department of State Health Services launched a comprehensive website, Dose of Reality, this week to educate individuals about the dangers of misusing prescription drugs. Dose of Reality informs the public about opioid-related resources and approaches to prevent substance use. The website also provides details on proper pain management, safe storage, guidelines on responding to an overdose and a statewide map of safe disposal locations.

In 2017, 464,000 Texans abused illicit drugs, including nearly 3,000 people who died due to drug overdose. Drug overdose is also the leading cause of maternal deaths. The abuse of prescription drugs costs lives, devastates families and is a public safety concern throughout the state. As part of its 86th Legislative Agenda, Methodist Healthcare Ministries supports state and local efforts to reduce opioid misuse through public policies that increase access and awareness to substance use treatment. 

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Jan 27-29: United Methodist Women Legislative Event 2019 (Austin)

Jan 28: HHSC Community Conversations on Peer Support (San Antonio)

Jan 28: Senate Finance Committee Hearing: Article V – Public Safety and Criminal Justice (Austin) 

Jan 28: House Appropriations Committee Hearing: Overview of Budget (Austin)

Jan 30: House Appropriations Committee Hearing: Healthcare (Austin)

Jan 31: Texans Care for Children: Keeping Kids Safe & Helping Them Succeed (Austin)

Jan 31: CPPP Legislative Briefing: State Budget (Austin)

Feb 5: Senate Finance Committee Hearing: Article II – Health and Human Services(Austin)

Feb 6: Senate Finance Committee Hearing: Article II – Health and Human Services Public Testimony (Austin)

Feb 7: Texans Care for Children: Providing Kids a Healthy Start (Austin)

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Legislative Update, December 14th

With less than a month to go before the start of the 86th Legislative Session, Methodist Healthcare Ministries is gearing up to review hundreds of bills impacting the health and well-being of all Texans, especially our most vulnerable citizens. In this newsletter, we will provide regular updates on filed bills, hearings, and votes taken on issues impacting the health of our families.

Interim Updates

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Health Care Policy News

Action Center

View our 2017 Legislative Agenda

Advocacy

Research

 

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Interim Updates

Bill Filing for 86th Legislative Session Begins

Texas’ 86th Legislative Session does not officially start until Tuesday, January 8, 2019, but lawmakers were able to get a head start on filing legislation as of November 12, 2018. Texas lawmakers filed more than 4,000 bills by the end of the first filing date and some of the filed legislation looks to affect access to healthcare for Texans. House Bill 80, by Linda Ortega (El Paso), would require a report relating to shortages in certain health professions. On the Senate side, Senator Jose Menendez (San Antonio) filed Senate Bill 105 to create a mental health jail diversion and crisis stabilization unit five year pilot program in Bexar County to evaluate, stabilize, and redirect individuals to the most appropriate and least restrictive setting. Methodist Healthcare Ministries is in the process of reviewing legislation impacting the healthcare of all Texans and will provide updates in its weekly newsletter throughout the 86th Legislative Session. Click here to sign up for Legislative Updates. 

State of Texas Children Report Reveals Poverty and Health Risk Among Texas Kids

Methodist Healthcare Ministries and the Center for Public Policy Priorities (CPPP) released the 2018 State of Texas Children report showing that Texas children lag behind their peers across the country in access to health care and educational opportunities. The report lays out the challenges Texas children and families face and offers key policy solutions for state leaders to consider. According to the report, Health insurance rates have improved since the passage of the Affordable Care Act, but 671,000 Texas kids remain uninsured, and significant barriers to health insurance coverage for Hispanic children persist. The report recommended that policymakers protect and expand comprehensive and affordable health insurance coverage for Texas families.

 

The 2018 State of Texas Children report was released at a briefing in San Antonio on November 15. Over 250 advocates, service providers, public officials and concerned Texans attended the event, which also featured a policy discussion with State Representative Diego Bernal, CPPP Legislative and Policy Director Luis Figueroa and journalist Bekah McNeel. At the briefing, several community members supported expanding access to health insurance and family planning services and protecting Medicaid and CHIP from cuts. Jaime Wesolowski, president and CEO at Methodist Healthcare Ministries, addressed the group and reminded the audience that Texas has consistently ranked in the bottom ten states for child well-being. Ensuring that lawmakers have the latest data and policy recommendations for the upcoming legislative session is an important role that s been spearheaded by the Ministries for many years to ensure that Texas kids are on a path to a bright future through policies that improve the conditions of all Texas kids and put them on the road to success.

House Select Committee Combats Opioid and Substance Use Epidemic

In 2016, more than 2,800 Texans died due to a drug overdose. The following year, 90 out of 172 child fatalities involved with the Texas Department of Protective Services were caused by abuse or neglect and involved a parent or caregiver actively using a substance and/or under the influence. This substance use crisis in Texas prompted the Texas House of Representatives’ Speaker Joe Straus to appoint the Select Committee on Opioids and Substance Abuse to provide recommendations to the upcoming 86th Legislative Session for combating the abuse of opioids and other drugs. Over the past 18 months, the Select Committee has reviewed the prevalence and impact of substance use disorders throughout different populations, studied policies and guidelines to monitor and prevent abuse of prescription drugs in state programs, identified the impact of opioids in the healthcare field and examined the impact of substance use disorders in Texas.

In their Interim Report to the 86th Texas Legislature, the Select Committee identified key recommendations to combat the opioid and substance use challenges through prevention, intervention and treatment and recovery efforts. One key finding is to continue the emphasis on integrated care, which provides care for the whole person and does not separate physical health from mental health. Advocates expressed the challenges of siloed care and the lack of ability to charge for varied services in a single visit to a facility on the same date, as opposed to integrated care. The committee also studied the prevalence of substance use disorders in specific populations and supported efforts to establish substance use treatment programs through other health programs for specific populations, such as Medicaid for Pregnant Women and Texas Veterans + Family Alliance Grant Program. They recommended looking into a funding mechanism to improve recovery housing initiatives for families, veterans, homeless and those with mental illnesses. More than 70 recommendations were included in the report to improve prevention practices and education, enhance prescription monitoring, increase supply management/medication disposal programs and expand treatment options for substance use disorders. Methodist Healthcare Ministries monitored the Select Committee hearings throughout the interim and supports the funding of additional substance use programs throughout the state, especially in rural areas.  

Texas Day Care Investigation Reveal Abuse and Neglect 

In a news report released by the Austin American Statesmen this week, investigative reporters found more than 450 children were sexually abused and 88 others died of abuse and neglect in Texas day care facilities in the last decade. The year-long investigation details the dangerous conditions that exist inside many Texas day care sites, leaving hundreds of children with serious injuries since 2007. The Statesman analyzed 40,000 inspection records and found that more than 450 children – almost one a week – suffered sexual abuse inside a day care facility during the past 10 years. Nearly half of the 88 children who died of abuse and neglect were in illegal centers. Reporters insist that state regulators have failed to take the necessary steps to ensure child safety, reduce surveillance of illegal centers or utilize data to identify preventable problems.

After reviewing the report, Texas Governor Greg Abbott and other state legislators pledged to address day care safety during the upcoming legislative session. Senator Judith Zaffirini (Laredo) is proposing a statewide study that would assess whether Texas’ staff-to-child ratios in day care centers lead to a more dangerous child care environment. Senator Kirk Watson (Austin) is looking at ways that the state can reestablish the Department of Family and Protective Services Investigative Unit, which was disbanded in 2017, to shut down illegal day care centers. Methodist Healthcare Ministries will continue to monitor this issue during the 86th Legislative Session and will support legislative recommendations that aim to protect and ensure the safety of Texas children.

HHSC Identifies New Strategies to Increase Quality Care for Family Planning

Texas has the fourth highest birth rate in the United States with more than 400,000 births in 2016. Of those, 52.5% of all state births were funded by the state’s Medicaid program. Data shows that 34.6% of women report their pregnancy was unintended, which can have significant consequences for individual women and their families. Research states that births resulting from unintended or closely spaced pregnancies link to adverse maternal and child health outcomes and numerous social and economic challenges. To address this problem, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) released a Long-Acting Reversible Contraception Strategic Plan that discusses the efficacy and benefits of long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) devices, billing and reimbursement challenges, accomplishments and measures to ensure quality care is provided.

In order to reduce unintended pregnancies and promote better birth outcomes, Texas is working to increase access to LARC devices, which are highly effective for preventing pregnancy and can last for several years. The report outlines several strategies to increase education and access to LARC devices, such as increasing efforts focused on educating women on available services in Texas and identifying best practices for reimbursing immediate postpartum LARC devices. Currently, state reimbursement does not always align with the acquisition cost since Medicaid rates and manufacturer rates are not updated at the same time. In their strategic plan, HHSC has identified improvements that can be made to ensure adequate statewide access. Methodist Healthcare Ministries supports HHSC’s efforts to reduce existing barriers to LARC devices while increasing education and access statewide.

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Dec 19: HHSC Proposed Amendments for Early Childhood Intervention Services Rules (San Antonio)

Jan 8: First Day of 86th Legislative Session (Austin)

Jan 19: State of D19 Senatorial Address with State Senator Pete Flores (San Antonio)

Jan 24: Children’s Health Coverage Coalition Legislative Briefing (Austin)

Health Care Policy News

Children's HealthTexans Care for Children: Report highlights strategies to prevent teen pregnancy in foster care

Access to Care

Kaiser Family Foundation: How Many of the Uninsured Can Purchase a Marketplace Plan for Free?

Houston Chronicle: Both men and women say state must spend more on health care, study says

 

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Jaime Wesoloski

President & Chief Executive Officer

Jaime Wesolowski is the President and Chief Executive Officer at Methodist Healthcare Ministries. A healthcare executive with three decades of leadership experience, Jaime is responsible for the overall governance and direction of Methodist Healthcare Ministries. Jaime earned his Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration from Xavier University, and his Bachelor’s of Science from Indiana University in Healthcare Administration. As a cancer survivor, Jaime is a staunch supporter of the American Cancer Society. He serves as Chair of the American Cancer Society’s South Texas Area board of directors and he was appointed as Chair to the recently created South Region Advisory Cabinet, covering eight states from Arizona through Alabama. Jaime believes his personal experience as a cancer survivor has given him more defined insight and compassion to the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of patients and their families.