The following information was obtained from the July 13 issue of the Texas Register:
Public Notices
The Texas Medical Board adopted new 22 TAC §§198.1 – 198.3 in the June 29, 2012, issue of the Texas Register (37 TexReg 4929). On page 4929, the name of the chapter, “Unlicensed Practice,” is incorrect and reflects the old topic of Chapter 198 rules. The correct name of the new chapter is “Standards for Use of Investigational Agents.”
HHSC intends to submit transmittal number 12-028 to the Texas State Plan for Medical Assistance, which would prohibit Medicaid from paying for hospital care-acquired conditions and certain other provider-preventable conditions.
HHSC intends to submit transmittal number 12-029, which would request a delay in the Recovery Audit Contractor program implementation date. (Expected date September 1, 2012)
HHSC intends to submit transmittal number 12-027, a technical change that removes audiologists from the “Other Practitioners’ Services” page in the state plan, as this page is reserved for licensed practitioners not covered elsewhere in federal regulations. Additionally, audiologists may provide hearing evaluations and furnish hearing aids.
Finally, HHSC intends to submit transmittal number 12-026, which would document the state’s intent to implement an asset verification system to determine or redetermine Medicaid eligibility for aged, blind, and disabled applicants and recipients, and demonstrates the state’s compliance with §1940 of the Social Security Act.
See the Texas Register for more information about each notice.
Proposed Rules
- On DADS’ behalf
HHSC proposed to amend §19.405, Additional Requirements for Trust Funds in Medicaid-certified Facilities, and §19.2314, Financial Audits in Chapter 19, Nursing Facility Requirements for Licensure and Medicaid Certification. The changes would clarify the requirements for managing residents’ personal funds and explain how DADS monitors and enforces those requirements. For more information, see the Texas Register.
Adopted Rules
The Texas Board of Nursing adopted amendments to §213.33(c), Factors Considered for Imposition of Penalties/Sanctions. If an individual completes a continuing education course on the treatment of tick-borne disease, it can be considered as a potentially mitigating factor in an eligibility or disciplinary matter involving his/her selection of clinical care for the treatment of tick-borne diseases, if the course was completed no more than two years before the start of the Board’s investigation.
The board also adopted amendments to §216.3, Requirements. License holders whose practice includes the treatment of tick-borne diseases are encouraged, but not required, to participate in continuing education on the treatment of tick-borne diseases during each two-year licensing period.
See the Texas Register for more information.