Bill > HB4615

This bill proposes several key changes to the regulation of nursing facilities in Texas, focusing on improving transparency, financial accountability, and quality of care. The bill requires nursing facility license applications to disclose detailed ownership information, including the names of individuals with at least 5% direct or indirect ownership interest in the facility and its property, and mandates that facilities notify the state of any changes to this information. It introduces a new requirement for nursing facilities participating in Medicaid to spend at least 80% of their patient care reimbursement on direct care expenses, which include non-revenue generating support services, ancillary services, and program services, but exclude administrative costs, capital expenses, and financial services. The bill also establishes penalties for non-compliance, such as the ability to recoup incentive payments and prohibit program participation for facilities that fail to meet requirements. Additionally, the bill requires Medicaid managed care organizations to support nursing facilities through discharge planning, transitional care, and payment incentives that reward reduced acute care costs and promote resident-centered care. The legislation aims to enhance oversight, ensure more of Medicaid funds are directly used for patient care, and improve the overall quality of nursing facility services in Texas, with implementation set for September 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4615