The House Committee on Public Health

84th Legislature

February 10, 2016

9:00 a.m.

E2.012

Pursuant to a notice posted on January 25, 2016, the House Committee on Public Health met in a public hearing and was called to order by the chair, Representative Crownover, at 9:05 a.m.

The initial quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Crownover; Naishtat; Blanco; Collier; Davis, Sarah; Guerra; Miller, Rick; Sheffield; Zedler; and Zerwas.

A quorum was present.

The committee met to consider interim charge #1:

Examine the history of telemedicine in Texas and the adequacy of the technological infrastructure for use between Texas healthcare providers.  Review the benefits of using telemedicine in rural and undeserved areas and current reimbursement practices.  Explore opportunities to expand and improve the delivery of healthcare and identify methods to increase awareness by provider groups, including institutions of higher education, and payers of telemedicine activities being reimbursed in Texas.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

The committee also considered interim charge #3:

Study and assess the state's preparedness for public health threats and emergencies including responding to natural disasters and highly infectious diseases.  Review current protocols and examine public health resources to determine if they are sufficient. Identify weaknesses within the public health response framework and make recommendations for improvement.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

At 4:13 p.m., on the motion of Representative Crownover and without objection, the meeting was adjourned subject to the call of the chair.

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Rep. Crownover, Chair

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Craig Holzheauser, Clerk