BILL ANALYSIS
Senate Research Center H.B. 584
79R8269 PB-F By: Delisi (Armbrister)
AUTHOR'S/SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT
Athletic trainers are involved in the prevention, care, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries. Athletic trainers work closely with physicians, physical therapists, strength coaches, and coaches medicine team. They are individuals who care after and give medical attention to student athletes under a doctor's supervision. Athletic trainers are licensed by the State of Texas and are the first to respond to on-site injuries of student athletes during athletic competition.
By allowing insurance companies the option of selecting an athletic trainer, the potential cost of medical care may be reduced when compared to costlier treatment by physicians. Furthermore, athletic trainers provide preventative medical treatment which aids in eliminating the need for major medical procedures. They work under the direction of doctors, and cannot submit for reimbursement unless authorized to do so by a physician.
H.B. 584 amends the Insurance Code to include athletic trainers, who are licensed by the Advisory Board of Athletic Trainers, in the list of medical specialists covered under insurance policies.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Amends Section 1451.001, Insurance Code, as effective April 1, 2005, by adding Subdivision (8-a), to define "licensed athletic trainer."
SECTION 2. Amends Subchapter C, Chapter 1451, Insurance Code, as effective April 1, 2005, by adding Section 1451.1201, as follows:
Sec. 1451.1201. SELECTION OF LICENSED ATHLETIC TRAINER. Authorizes an insured to select a licensed athletic trainer to provide the services scheduled in the health insurance policy that are within the scope of the athletic trainer's license.
SECTION 3. Makes application of this Act prospective to January 1, 2006.
SECTION 4. Effective date: September 1, 2005.