Texas HB3396 allows certain medical consenters to cover out-of-network medical care costs for foster children, ensuring access to necessary services.

HB3396 amends the Texas Family Code to authorize medical consenters, excluding the department, to assume financial responsibility for out-of-network medical care for foster children. This includes behavioral health services. The medical consenter must notify the child's caseworker and the department ensures the child's health passport records the care. The department is not liable for these costs. The bill also amends the Government Code to prevent Medicaid managed care organizations from discouraging access to such care and requires compliance in STAR Health program contracts.

Texas HB3396 allows certain medical consenters to cover out-of-network medical care costs for foster children, ensuring access to necessary services.

HB3396 amends the Texas Family Code to authorize medical consenters, excluding the department, to assume financial responsibility for out-of-network medical care for foster children. This includes behavioral health services. The medical consenter must notify the child's caseworker and the department ensures the child's health passport records the care. The department is not liable for these costs. The bill also amends the Government Code to prevent Medicaid managed care organizations from discouraging access to such care and requires compliance in STAR Health program contracts.