The following health care related state agency hearings are scheduled between
6/8/2015
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
June 8, 2015 – 01:00 PM
4900 North Lamar Blvd. (HHSC, Brown-Heatly Bldg., Public Hearing Room), Austin
STAR+PLUS Nursing Facility Advisory Committee 1. Call to Order. 2. Roll Call. 3. Approval of the Minutes (Meeting March 9, 2015). 4. Update on Nursing Facility Carve-In. 5. STAR+PLUS Quality Measures. 6. Public Comment. 7. Set agendas, dates, times and locations of upcoming meetings in 2015. 8. Adjournment. Additional Information Contact: David Williams, 877/541-7905
6/9/2015
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
June 9, 2015 – 09:00 AM
701 W 51st St. (DADS, Winters Bldg., Public Hearing Room), Austin
Medical Care Advisory Committee 1. Opening Comments: Gilbert Handal, M.D., Medical Care Advisory Committee Chair. 2. Comments from the Associate Commissioner for Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP): Kay Ghahremani, Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). 3. Approval of February 2015 Meeting Minutes. (Vote Required) 4. Presentation on the Transformation Waiver Renewal, Extension Request for Submission to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS): Ardas Khalsa, Deputy Medicaid/CHIP Director, Healthcare Transformation Waiver. HHSC staff will present an overview of current extension, renewal activities under the Texas Healthcare Transformation & Quality Improvement Program, otherwise known as the 1115 waiver. The overview will include an update on Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment (DSRIP) and Uncompensated Care (UC) and managed care. Informational items: 5. Payments to Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) Providers for Certain Costs Associated with the Affordable Care Act Employer Mandate. HHSC proposes amendments to Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 355, Subchapter A, Rule s355.112, Attendant Compensation Rate Enhancement, and Subchapter C, Rule s355.308, Direct Care Staff Rate Component. The proposed amendments will establish separate rate enhancement pools for certain LTSS providers. These enhancement pools will allow for additional payments to providers for new costs accrued in complying with the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Employer Responsibility provisions, which require certain employers to provide health insurance to their full-time employees and their dependents. These additional payments will be subject to spending accountability requirements to ensure that the additional funds are expended as intended. – Victor Perez, Director, Long Term Services and Supports, HHSC 6. Spending Accountability for the Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions (ICF/IID) Program. HHSC proposes amendments to Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 355, Subchapter D, Rule s355.456, Reimbursement Methodology. The proposed amendments will establish a system of spending accountability that requires each non-state-owned ICF/IID provider to expend at least 90 percent of funds received through the ICF/IID program's Medicaid payment rates on Medicaid allowable costs under this program. Providers who fail to meet the 90 percent spending requirement would be subject to a recoupment of the difference between the 90 percent spending requirement and their actual expenditures. – Victor Perez, Director, Long Term Services and Supports, HHSC 7. Spending Accountability for the Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) Waiver Programs. HHSC proposes amendments to Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 355, Subchapter F, Rule s355.723, Reimbursement Methodology for Home and Community-Based Services and Texas Home Living Programs. The proposed amendments will establish a system of spending accountability that requires each HCS and TxHmL provider to expend at least 90 percent of funds received through the HCS and TxHmL waiver programs' Medicaid payment rates on Medicaid allowable costs under these programs. Providers who fail to meet the 90 percent spending requirement would be subject to a recoupment of the difference between the 90 percent spending requirement and their actual expenditures. – Victor Perez, Director, Long Term Services and Supports, HHSC 8. Reimbursement Methodologies for Physicians and Other Practitioners. HHSC proposes amendments to Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 355, Subchapter J, Division 5, Rule s355.8085, Reimbursement Methodology for Physicians and Other Practitioners. The proposed amendments will allow HHSC to maintain enhanced reimbursement rates for primary care services for certain providers as directed by House Bill 1, 84th Legislature, Regular Session, 2015, Article II and to add Peer Support Specialists, dental hygienists, and dental hygiene practitioners as eligible Medicaid providers. – Ross Keenon, Rate Analyst for Acute Care, HHSC 9. Reimbursement Methodologies for Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis, and Treatment (EPSDT) Services. HHSC proposes amendments to Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 355, Subchapter J, Division 23, Rule s355.8441, Reimbursement Methodologies for EPSDT Services. The proposed amendments will add dental hygienists and dental hygiene practitioners as eligible Medicaid providers. – Rozsalind Brown, Rate Analyst for Acute Care, HHSC 10. Reimbursement Methodology for Telemedicine, Telehealth, and Home Telemonitoring Services. HHSC proposes amendments to Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 355, Subchapter G, Rule s355.7001, Reimbursement Methodology for Telemedicine, Telehealth, and Home Telemonitoring Services. The proposed amendments will update the Medicaid reimbursement methodology to state that telemedicine, telehealth, and telemonitoring services will be reimbursed under pilot programs and established Medicaid programs for children and/or adults in accordance with program rules and reimbursement methodologies for Telemedicine, Telehealth, and Home Telemonitoring Services including School Health and Related Services. – Rozsalind Brown, Rate Analyst for Acute Care, HHSC 11. Minimum Payment Amounts to Qualified Nursing Facilities, Chapter 353. The Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) amends Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 353, Subchapter G, s353.608, concerning Minimum Payment Amounts to Qualified Nursing Facilities. Participation in the nursing facility (NF) minimum payment amounts program (MPAP) is limited to NFs where a non-state governmental entity holds the license and is party to the NF's Medicaid provider enrollment agreement with the State. Due to the lead time required to calculate, adopt, and implement managed care capitation rates, NFs must be identified as qualified MPAP participants significantly prior to the effective date of the capitation rates. For the final MPAP eligibility period (Eligibility Period Two), the list of qualified NFs was required to be finalized by March 15, 2015. To comply with this deadline, s353.608 indicated that, for Eligibility Period Two (September 1, 2015 through August 31, 2016), a NF may be eligible only if its contract was assigned by the Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) to a non-state governmental entity by February 28, 2015. Due to the unprecedented number of change of ownership (CHOW) applications submitted for Eligibility Period Two and the fact that the majority of those applications were incomplete when submitted, there was a large backlog of CHOW applications at DADS. Only a portion of those applications were able to be processed by the February 28, 2015, cut-off date for Eligibility Period Two. Without further action on HHSC's part, NFs whose CHOWs were not processed by February 28, 2015, would not be eligible for the NF MPAP for any part of Eligibility Period Two. In order to allow these remaining NFs an opportunity to participate in the MPAP for some portion of state fiscal year 2016 while still ensuring that capitation rate calculations are based on a finalized list of participating NFs, HHSC plans to conduct a mid-year capitation rate review for capitation rates to be effective December 1, 2015, and adopts an amendment to s353.608 to add a third eligibility period, Eligibility Period Two-A, to cover-December 1, 2015, through August 31, 2016. Eligibility for Eligibility Period Two-A will be limited to NFs that submitted CHOW applications to DADS by February 1, 2015, that were not processed by the February 28, 2015, cut-off date for Eligibility Period Two because they were incomplete when submitted. – Pam McDonald, Director, HHSC Rate Analysis 12. Inpatient Hospital Reimbursement. HHSC proposes amendments to Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 355, Subchapter J, Division 4, Rule s355.8052, Inpatient Hospital Reimbursement. The proposed amendments will allow HHSC to implement targeted inpatient hospital rate increases funded through House Bill 1, 84th Legislature, Regular Session, 2015, Article II. Proposed amendments may include increases in the percentages us
ed in determining the trauma add-on amounts for hospitals eligible for an increase to their base standard dollar amount through a trauma add-on. Proposed amendments may also include the implementation of a targeted rate add-on for safety-net hospitals. Increases will be contingent upon the full federal allocation of disproportionate share hospital (DSH) funding (excluding that portion of the allocation associated with state-owned or operated hospitals) being matched by local intergovernmental transfers. – Laura Skaggs, Coordinator, Hospital Rates and Payments, HHSC 13. Outpatient Hospital Reimbursement. HHSC proposes amendments to Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 355, Subchapter J, Division 4, Rule s355.8061, Outpatient Hospital Reimbursement. The proposed amendments will allow HHSC to implement increases in, or add-ons to general outpatient reimbursement rates, non-emergent emergency department rates, outpatient hospital imaging services fees, and/or outpatient clinical laboratory services fees for hospitals located in a county with 60,000 or fewer persons according to the 2010 U.S. Census, and Medicare-designated Rural Referral Centers (RCC), Sole Community Hospitals (SCH), and Critical Access Hospitals (CAH). – Laura Skaggs, Coordinator, Hospital Rates and Payments, HHSC 14. Attendant Minimum Wage Requirements. HHSC, on behalf of DADS, proposes amendments to Title 40, Part 1, Chapter 41, Consumer Directed Services Option, and Chapter 49, Contracting for Community Services. The proposed amendments will increase the required base wage for personal attendants from $7.86 per hour to $8.00 per hour. – Bill Campbell, Director, Community Services Contracts, Access and Intake, dads notice of proposed rules/action items: 15. Vision Care Services, Chapter 355. HHSC proposes to amend Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 355, Subchapter J, Division 1, s355.8001 (relating to Reimbursement for Vision Care Services). The proposed amendments correct a cross reference and make other non-substantive language changes. The amendments to this rule are being proposed to coincide with other changes to rules in Chapters 354 and 363 also related to vision care. – Amy Chandler, Program Specialist, Medicaid/CHIP Policy Development Support, HHSC 16. Vision Care Services, Chapter 354. HHSC proposes to repeal Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 354, Subchapter A, Division 2, 354.1015 (relating to Benefits and Limitations), 354.1017 (relating to Specifications for Eyewear), 354.1021 (relating to Additional Claims Information Requirements), 354.1023 (relating to Optometric Services Provider), and 354.1025 (relating to Competitive Procurement of Vision Care Services). The proposed amendments simplify rule requirements related to vision care. Simplifying these rules allows HHSC more flexibility in developing timely and evidence-based medical policy. The existing rules provide detailed information on the provision of vision benefits. The current level of detail requires HHSC to amend the rules to implement simple updates and changes to the Texas Medicaid medical policy. The proposed rule amendments will align with legal requirements for the benefits and associated limitations while allowing for flexibility and enhanced timeliness in adopting future changes to medical benefits. – Laurie VanHoose, Director, Policy Development Support, HHSC 17. Vision Care Services, Chapter 363. HHSC proposes to amend Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 363, Subchapter E, 363.501 (relating to Definitions), 363.502 (relating to Benefits and Limitations), 363.503 (relating to Specifications for Eyewear), and 363.504 (relating to Claims Information Requirements). The proposed amendments simplify rule requirements related to vision care. Simplifying these rules allows HHSC more flexibility in developing timely and evidence-based medical policy. The existing rules provide detailed information on the provision of vision benefits. The current level of detail requires HHSC to amend the rules to implement simple updates and changes to the Texas Medicaid medical policy. The proposed rule amendments will align with legal requirements for the benefits and associated limitations while allowing for flexibility and enhanced timeliness in adopting future changes to medical benefits. – Laurie VanHoose, Director, Policy Development, HHSC 18. Exceptional Circumstances, Chapter 354. HHSC proposes to amend Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 354, Subchapter A, Division 3, s354.1039 (relating to Home Health Services Benefits and Limitations). The current rule does not provide clear guidance regarding documentation required to substantiate medical need for durable medical equipment that is not listed in the rule as reimbursable by Medicaid as part of home health services. The amended rule will clarify for a provider the required documentation to substantiate the medical need for durable medical equipment in an "exceptional circumstance." The rule will further clarify that HHSC makes the final decision on whether a client's condition meets the clinical criteria to qualify for the "exceptional circumstance" provision of this rule. – Laurie Van Hoose, Director, Policy Development, HHSC 19. Tuberculosis Institution, Chapter 354. HHSC proposes to amend Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 354, Subchapter A, Division 10, s354.1121 (relating to Definitions) and Division 11, s354.1149 (relating to Exclusions and Limitations). HHSC also proposes to amend the title of the rule in Division 28, s354.1371 (relating to Benefits and Limitations). The Social Security Act historically precluded participation in Medicaid by a tuberculosis (TB) institution, but the exclusion was removed. The proposed amendments align Texas Medicaid rules with federal statute by removing the prohibition against paying a TB institution for inpatient services provided through Texas Medicaid. The state of Texas currently has one TB institution, the Texas Center for Infectious Disease (TCID), which is operated by the Department of State Health Services (DSHS). The proposed change would allow TCID to bill Medicaid for Medicaid-enrolled individuals receiving treatment for TB. – Alex Melis, Policy Analyst, HHSC 20. Nurse Aide Registry and Renewal. HHSC, on behalf of DADS, proposes an amendment to Title 40, Part 1, s94.9, concerning Nurse Aide Registry and Renewal. The proposal allows a nurse aide to receive required in-service education from DADS or a healthcare entity (other than a nursing facility or skilled nursing facility) licensed by DADS or the Department of State Health Services or certified by the Board of Nursing. – Anne Trejo, Manager, NFA Licensing, Licensing & Credentialing Section, Regulatory Services, DADS 21. Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities, Community Living Assistance and Support Services, and Medically Dependent Children Program. HHSC, on behalf of DADS, proposes repeals, amendments, and new rules in Title 40, Part 1, Chapters 42, concerning Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities (DBMD); Chapter 45, concerning Community Living Assistance Support Services (CLASS); and Chapter 51, concerning Medically Dependent Children Program. The proposal aligns rules concerning waiver program interest lists and enrollment with current practice, clarifies how DADS maintains interest lists and makes and withdraws offers of waiver program services, and clarifies DADS' expectation for an individual plan of care (IPC) to be developed using person-centered planning. The proposal addresses the requirement for program provider membership on an individual's service planning team; clarifies the requirements and DADS' processes regarding an IPC, DADS' review of an enrollment request, utilization review of an IPC, lapsed diagnostic eligibility, denial of program eligibility or a service, and a service reduction; and requires an intervener and a service provider of employment assistance and supported employment to comply with the DBMD waiver application in Chapter 42, concerning DBMD. The proposal clarifies certain eligibility criteria, the requirements for the CLASS Program services identified in the IPC, and DADS review of an IPC in Chapter 45, concerning CLASS. The pro
posal deletes the requirement that a primary caregiver's designee, if designated on a backup plan for respite or flexible family support services, must meet the qualifications for an attendant and corrects the requirements for a service provider of employment assistance and supported employment to comply with the MDCP waiver application in Chapter 51, concerning MDCP. The proposal repeals s48.1301, concerning interest lists for certain waiver programs, in Chapter 48, Community Care for Aged and Disabled. – Corliss Powell, Senior Policy Analyst/Rules Coordinator, Center for Policy and Innovation, DADS 22. Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living. HHSC, on behalf of DADS, proposes amendments, repeals, and new rules in Title 40, Part 1, Chapter 9, Subchapter D, concerning Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Subchapter N, concerning Texas Home Living (TxHmL). The proposal aligns rules concerning waiver program interest lists with current practice and clarifies how DADS maintains interest lists and makes and withdraws offers of waiver program services; adds new requirements for a service coordinator and a program provider to participate in service planning team (SPT) meetings and other activities for waiver program applicants 21 years of age or older who reside in, or who are diverted from, a nursing facility; deletes the definition of "non-routine circumstances" and the requirement that respite be provided on a non-routine basis; revises the description of the process to request a reinstatement of a lapsed level of care (LOC) by no longer requiring an HCS provider or for TxHmL, the local authority, to document the begin date of the lapsed period on a DADS form; and requires a service provider of behavioral support to complete training required by DADS. The proposal implements transition assistance services as a new service; allows certain applicants to receive pre-enrollment minor home modifications (MHMs) and a pre-enrollment MHMs assessment; allows DADS to pay the program provider for providing pre-enrollment MHMs and pre-enrollment MHMs assessments if an applicant does not enroll with the program provider; requires a program provider to ensure a certain water temperature in residential settings; requires the service coordinator, between 60 to 90 calendar days before the expiration of an individual's plan of care, to notify the SPT that the individual's person-directed plan (PDP) must be reviewed and updated and to convene an SPT meeting to review and update the individual's PDP, and within ten calendar days after the PDP is updated, to send a copy to the program provider; clarifies that if DADS grants reinstatement of an LOC determination, the period of reinstatement will be for a period of not more than 180 calendar days after the end date of the previously authorized LOC; and allows DADS after a residential visit to require a program provider to submit evidence of corrective action within a time period determined by DADS, in Subchapter D, concerning HCS. – Amanda Woodall, Lead HCS and TxHmL Policy Specialist, Center for Policy and Innovation, DADS 23. Public Comment. 24. Proposed Next Meeting: Thursday, August 20, 2015, at 9:00 a.m. 25. Adjourn. Additional Information Contact: Sallie Allen, 512/424-6969
6/10/2015
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
June 10, 2015 – 10:00 AM
4900 N Lamar Blvd. (HHSC, Brown-Heatly, Public Hearing Room), Austin
Behavioral Health Integration Advisory Committee This meeting will be webcast. To access the webcast, go to http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/news/meetings.asp the day and time of the meeting. 1. Welcome and Introductions. 2. Review and Approval of the March 11, 2015, minutes. 3. General updates on upcoming Medicaid mental health medical policy process by Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Staff. 4. Discussion/Vote on Report. 5. Lunch Break. (45 minutes) 6. *Discussion/Vote on Report continued. 7. Break. 8. Public Comment. 9. Discussion of Agenda Items at September 2015 Behavioral Health Integration Advisory Committee meeting. 10. Adjourn. *Public comment will be taken on this agenda item. Additional Information Contact: Monica Thyssen, 512/462-6217
Department of State Health Services
June 10, 2015 – 01:30 PM
Greenlights For Nonprofit Success, 8303 N. MoPac Expressway,Suite A201, Austin
Public Health Funding and Policy Committee The Committee will meet to discuss and possibly act on the following agenda: Welcome/Call to Order 1. Approval of April 8, 2015 Meeting Minutes* 2. Office of the Assistant Commissioner Updates 3. Legislative Update* 4. Preparedness Funding Formula Update* 5. Core Services Workgroup Update* 6. Federal Funds Analysis Project with NACCHO, HHS, de Beaumont Foundation Update* 7. 1115A Waiver for Chronic Disease* 8. General Public Comment 9. Agenda Items for Next Meeting* 10. Future Meeting Dates/Locations* Adjourn *Denotes Action Items. Additional Information Contact: Glenna Laughlin, 512/776-7770
Department of Aging and Disability Services
June 10, 2015 – 02:00 PM
701 W 51st St, John H. Winters Bldg., Public Hearing Room, Austin
Aging and Disability Services Council – Work Session 1. Welcome and Call To Order 2. Commissioner's Sunset Update 3. Summary of FY2016-2017 Legislative Appropriations Report 4. State Supported Living Centers (SSLC) Report 5. Community Services Report 6. Adjourn. Additional Information Contact: 512/438-4157
6/11/2015
Texas Medical Board
June 11, 2015 – 08:30 AM
333 Guadalupe, Tower 2, Suite 225, Austin
Executive Committee 1. Call to order and roll call. 2. Discussion of Comptroller contract training requirements. 3. Report Physician Health Program (PHP) Workgroup. 4. Discussion, recommendation, and possible action regarding the board's online presence. Additional Information Contact: Sandra Ramirez, 512/305-7111
Department of Aging and Disability Services
June 11, 2015 – 08:30 AM
701 W 51st St, John H. Winters Bldg., Public Hearing Room, Austin
Aging and Disability Services Council 1. Welcome and Call to Order 2. *Approval of the Minutes of the March 12, 2015 Council Meeting 3. Commissioner's Quarterly Update – Activities – Special Recognition(s)/Announcement(s) – Staffing and Personnel 4. Public Comment 5. HHSC Informational Items: a. Reimbursement Methodology for Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions b. Home and Community Based Services (HCS) Total Medicaid Spending Requirement 6. *Recommendation to Propose: a. *Recommendation to support the proposal of amendments to s41.505 in 40 TAC Chapter 41, Consumer Directed Services Option, and s49.312 in 40 TAC Chapter 49, Contracting for Community Services b. *Recommendation to propose amendment to Section s94.9 in 40 TAC Chapter 94, Nurse Aides c. *Recommendation to propose amendments, a new rule, and a repeal in 40 TAC Chapter 42, Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities Program; amendments, a new rule, and a repeal in 40 TAC Chapter 45, Community Living Assistance and Support Services; the repeal of s48.1301 in 40 TAC Chapter 48, Community Care for Aged and Disabled; and amendments, a new rule and a repeal in 40 TAC Chapter 51, Medically Dependent Children Program d. *Recommendation to propose amendments to several sections in 40 TAC Chapter 9, Subchapter D, Home and Community-based Services (HCS) Program and in 40 TAC Chapter 9, Subchapter N, Texas Home Living (TxHmL) Program e. *Recommendation to propose amendments to several sections in 40 TAC Chapter 2, Subchapter G, Role and Responsibilities of a Local Authority; the repeal of 40 TAC Chapter 5, Subchapter D, Diagnostic Eligibility for Services and Supports–Intellectual Disability Priority Population and Related Conditions; and new 40 TAC Chapter 5, Subchapter D, Diagnostic Assessment 7. Adjourn *Denotes item open for action. Additional Information Contact: 512/438-4157
Texas Medical Board
June 11, 2015 – 09:00 AM
333 Guadalupe, Tower 2, Suite 225, Austin
Finance Committee 1. Call to order and roll call. 2. Budget report. 3. Adjourn. Additional Information Contact: Sandra Ramirez, 512/305-7111
Texas Medical Board
June 11, 2015 – 09:15 AM
333 Guadalupe, Lobby Area, Room 100, Austin
Licensure Committee 1. Call to order and roll call. 2. Discussion, recommendation and possible action regarding Board Approved Fellowships 3. Discussion, recommendation and possible action regarding licensee requests 4. Discussion, recommendation and possible action regarding applicants for licensure, permits, and certification a. Applicants appearing concerning eligibility b. Proposed orders offered by the Executive Director c. Physician licensure applicants to be licensed d. Surgical assistant licensure applicants to be licensed e. Acudetox applicants to be certified 5. Report on physician licensure statistics 6. Discussion, recommendation and possible action regarding cancellation of licenses by request or for incomplete registration a. Surgical assistant b. Acudetox 7. Discussion, recommendation and possible action regarding Nonprofit Health Organizations a. Applicants for initial certification b. Requests for biennial recertification c. Cancellation of organizations certified as Nonprofit Health Organizations 8. Discussion, recommendation and possible action regarding the Ten Year Rule 9. Discussion, recommendation and possible action regarding the Visiting Physician Temporary Permit 10. Discussion, recommendation and possible action regarding proposed amendments to board rules a. 171.3 Physician in Training Permits 11. Adjourn. Additional Information Contact: Sandra Ramirez, 512/305-7111
Texas Medical Board
June 11, 2015 – 09:15 AM
333 Guadalupe, Tower 2, Suite 225, Austin
Disciplinary Process Review Committee 1. Call to order and roll call. 2. Discussion, recommendation, and possible action regarding referrals and reports from the Texas Physician Health Program. 3. Discussion, recommendation, and possible action regarding renewals involving impaired licensees. 4. Reports and discussion regarding the Investigation, Litigation and Compliance Departments. 5. Discussion, recommendation, and possible action regarding proposed changes to the following chapters in Title 22 of the Texas Administrative Code: A. Chapter 190, Disciplinary Guidelines, s190.8(2). Violation Guidelines, s190.14. Disciplinary Sanction Guidelines B. Proposed rule review and amendments to Chapter 197, Emergency Medical Service, s197.4. On-Line Medical Direction 6. Review, discussion, and possible action regarding review of probationers appearances. 7. Consideration and approval of membership of the Expert Physician Panel. 8. Reports and discussion regarding cases over one year old. 9. Review, discussion, and possible action regarding appeals of dismissed complaints: A. Jurisdictional Complaints: i. Investigations 14-5140 14-5370 14-5456 14-5720 14-6566 14-6692 15-1011 15-1520 15-1993 B. Jurisdictional-Not-Filed Complaints: 14-6200 14-6203 14-6419 14-6598 14-6693 14-6701 15-0012 15-1228 15-2430 15-2471 15-2558 15-2559 15-2616 15-2629 15-2630 15-2644 15-2844 15-3269 15-3394 15-3489 15-3531 15-3687 15-3731 15-3772 15-3833 15-3977 15-3992 15-4000 15-4221 15-4247 15-4290 C. Non-Jurisdictional Complaints 15-1641 10. Discussion, recommendation, and possible action regarding routine follow-up on investigative files previously referred from DPRC for follow-up action, specifically including: 14-2843 14-3375 11. Review, discussion, and possible action regarding selected files and cases. 12. Adjourn. Additional Information Contact: Sandra Ramirez, 512/305-7111
6/12/2015
Texas Medical Board
June 12, 2015 – 08:00 AM
333 Guadalupe, Tower 2, Suite 225, Austin
Full Board 1. Full Board call to order, roll call, and Mission Statement. Our Mission is to protect and enhance the public's health, safety and welfare by establishing and maintaining standards of excellence used in regulating the practice of medicine and ensuring quality health care for the citizens of Texas through licensure, discipline, and education. 2. Board Member Report. 3. Executive Director Report. Budget Legislative Update Outreach Update Audit Update Personnel Update Board Training 4. Consideration and possible action regarding pending litigation. 5. Medical Director Report. 6. Public Information Update. 7. Consideration and approval of Modification Request/Termination Request of Non-Public Rehabilitation Orders. 8. Consideration and approval of Modification Request/Termination Request Orders. 9. Consideration and possible action for Agreed Board Orders. 10. Consideration and approval of Mediated Settlement Agreed Orders. 11. Consideration and approval of Remedial Plans. 12. Consideration and approval of Nunc Pro Tunc Orders. 13. Consideration and approval of Orders of Referral. 14. Consideration and approval of Order to Show Cause. 15. Consideration and approval of Amended Proposal for Decision. 16. Consideration and approval of Remand of Amended Final Orders. 17. Consideration and approval of Cease and Desist Agreed Orders. Agenda item #18 at 10:00 a.m. 18. Consideration and approval of Proposal for Decisions for: 1. Douglas Ray Shelton, M.D. SOAH #503-13-4127.MD Agenda item #19 at 10:30 a.m. 19. Consideration and approval of Determinations of Default 1. Christopher Scott, S.A. 20. Report on Cease and Desist Orders approved by Executive Director. 21. Report on Motions for Rehearing Requests. 22. Report on Temporary Suspensions. 23. Report of Suspension by Operation of Law. 24. Report on Automatic Orders. 25. Discussion, recommendation, and possible action regarding proposed amendments and rule review to the following in 22 Texas Administrative Code: 1. Chapter 175, related to fees Agenda Item #26 at 11:00 a.m. 26. Discussion, recommendation, and possible action regarding the adoption of proposed amendments and rule review to 22 Texas Administrative Code: 1. Chapter 163 a. s163.6 Examinations Accepted for Licensure 2. Chapter 166.2 a. s166.2 Continuing Medical Education 3. Chapter 170, Pain Management a. s170.1. Purpose b. s170.2. Definitions c. s170.3. Guidelines 4. Chapter 180, Texas Physician Health Program and Rehabilitation Orders a. s180.4. Operation of the Program 5. Chapter 184 a. s184.4. Qualifications for Licensure 6. Chapter 187, Procedural Rules a. s187.13. Informal Board Proceedings Relating to Licensure Eligibility b. s187.24. Pleadings c. s187.43. Proceedings for the Modification/Termination of Agreed Orders and Disciplinary Orders d. s187.61. Ancillary Proceeding e. s187.70. Purposes and Construction f. s187.72. Decision of the Panel g. Proposed Repeal of s187.73. Termination of Suspension 7. Chapter 189, Compliance Program a. s189.7. Modification/Termination Hearings 27. Discussion, recommendation, and possible action regarding adoption of proposed rule changes to 22 T.A.C. Chapter 183, Acupuncture a. s183.4. Licensure b. s183.6 Denial of License, Discipline 28. Discussion, recommendation, and possible action regarding adoption of proposed rule changes to 22 T.A.C. Chapter 185, Physician Assistants. Agenda Item #29 at 11:30 a.m. 29. Open forum for public comments. 30. Adjourn. Discussion/Action Items – to be considered at any time the full board is in session: 1. Consideration and approval of the April 10, 2015 Board Meeting Minutes. 2. Committee reports and the consideration and approval of minutes and action items of committees meeting during the board meeting. Additional Information Contact: Sandra Ramirez, 512/305-7111
Department of State Health Services
June 12, 2015 – 08:30 AM
Austin-Health and Human Services Commission, MHMR Center, Conference Room 164, 909 W. 45th Street, Austin
Topic Research Committee of the Texas Radiation Advisory Board The Committee will convene as posted to hear, consider, discuss and take formal action, as applicable and necessary, on the following agenda items, as time allows: 1. Call to Order 2. Introduction of members and guests 3. Review and, as needed, discuss and take possible action concerning, amendment and/or approval of the minutes of the February 27, 2015 Topic Research Committee meeting 4. Continuing Business: A. Update on rulemaking priorities (Chuck Flynn, DSHS) 5. New Business: A. Identify any additional topics that need further research to be addressed by the TRAB B. Identify topics to recommend be further discussed and addressed at future meetings of the Medical Committee, Industrial, Nuclear Power, Uranium, and Waste (INUW) Committee, or full Board 6. Public Comments 7. Summarize Committee meeting and recommendations for Committee Report and proposed action items for TRAB and for future agenda items for TRAB, the Medical Committee, or INUW Committees 8. Identification of Agenda Items for next or future Topic Research Committee Meeting 9. Adjourn. Additional Information Contact: Ian Hamilton, ihamilton@sw.org
Department of State Health Services
June 12, 2015 – 09:00 AM
Austin-Health and Human Services Commission, MHMR Center, Conference Room 164, 909 W. 45th Street, Austin
Industrial, Nuclear Power, Uranium and Waste Committee of the Texas Radiation Advisory Board (TRAB) The Committee will convene as posted to hear, consider, discuss and take formal action, as applicable and necessary, on the following agenda items, as time allows: 1. Call to Order 2. Introduction of members and guests 3. Consideration and, as needed, discussion and possible action concerning amendment and/or approval of the minutes of this Committee's February 27, 2015, meeting 4. Continuing Business: A. Update and discussion on the Texas Low Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Facility (McGuire, TCEQ) B. Discussion and consideration of EPA's proposed rules in 40 CFR Part 192 regarding in-situ mining of uranium, and consideration of comments submitted to the EPA on those proposed rules for possible recommendation to TRAB of a letter, including a possible letter of support and/or endorsement, to the EPA (Raabe) C. Discussion of issues, impacts, and potential recommendations related to the consideration of grandfathering from out-of-compact waste charges those sealed sources that were in Texas before current radioactive waste regulations were enacted (John Salsman) D. Discussion of NRC's July 25, 2014, Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR), Docket ID NRC-2009-0279, related to the consideration of potential amendments to 10 CFR Part 20, the NRC's current radiation protection regulations, including potential recommendation to TRAB for additional submission of comments during the comment period extended to June 22, 2015 5. New Business A. Discuss the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission's proposed rule changes regarding the criteria for low-level radioactive waste disposal 10 CFR Part 61 and consider whether to recommend possible TRAB action or recommendations during the comment period ending July 24, 2015 (McGuire, TCEQ) B. Consider and make recommendations to TRAB on draft rule packet for the following sections of 25 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 289 to ensure compatibility with the new 10 CFR Part 37, Physical protection of category 1 and category 2 quantities of radioactive material: (Chuck Flynn, DSHS) i. Section 289.201, General Provisions for Radioactive Material ii. Section 289.202, Standards for Protection Against Radiation from Radioactive Materials iii. Section 289.251, Exemptions, General Licenses, and General License Acknowledgements iv. Section 289.252, Licensing of Radioactive Material v. Section 289.257, Packaging and Transportation of Radioactive Material 6. Public Comments 7. Summarize Committee meeting and recommendations for Committee Report and proposed action items for TRAB 8. Identification of Future Meeting Topics for this Committee 9. Adjourn. Additional Information Contact: Ken Krieger, kvkrieger@netzero.net
Department of State Health Services
June 12, 2015 – 09:00 AM
Austin-Health and Human Services Commission, MHMR Center, Conference Room 240, 909 W. 45th Street, Austin
Medical Committee of the Texas Radiation Advisory Board (TRAB) The Committee will convene as posted to hear, consider, discuss and take formal action, as applicable and necessary, on the following agenda items, as time allows: 1. Call to Order 2. Introduction of members and guests 3. Review and, as needed, discuss and take possible action concerning amendment and/or approval of the minutes of the February 27, 2015, TRAB Medical Committee meeting 4. Continuing Business: A. Discuss delay of the implementation of the radiation safety awareness training in 25 Texas Administrative Code Section 289.227(m)(9)(E), pursuant to Kathryn Perkins letter dated January 13, 2015 B. Discussion of NRC's July 25, 2014, Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR), Docket ID NRC-2009-0279, related to the consideration of potential amendments to 10 CFR Part 20, the NRC's current radiation protection regulations, including potential recommendation to TRAB for additional submission of comments during the comment period extended to June 22, 2015. 5. New Business – A. Legislative update and discussion concerning Medical Physicist licensing for the diagnostic radiological physics specialty B. Consider and make recommendations to TRAB on draft rule packet for the following sections of 25 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 289 to ensure compatibility with the new 10 CFR Part 37, Physical protection of category 1 and category 2 quantities of radioactive material: (Chuck Flynn, DSHS) i. Section 289.201, General Provisions for Radioactive Material ii. Section 289.202, Standards for Protection Against Radiation from Radioactive Materials iii. Section 289.251, Exemptions, General Licenses, and General License Acknowledgements iv. Section 289.252, Licensing of Radioactive Material v. Section 289.257, Packaging and Transportation of Radioactive Material C. Consider comments submitted to the EPA concerning proposed rules regarding in-situ mining of uranium for possible recommendation to TRAB of a letter, including a possible letter of support and/or endorsement, to the EPA 6. Public Comments 7. Summarize Committee meeting and recommendations for Committee Report and proposed action items for TRAB. 8. Identification of Agenda Items for next Medical Committee Meeting 9. Adjourn. Additional Information Contact: Darlene Metter, metter@uthscsa.edu
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
June 12, 2015 – 10:00 AM
4900 North Lamar Blvd. (HHSC, Brown-Heatly Bldg., Public Hearing Room), Austin
Health and Human Services Commission Council The Council meeting can be viewed live and on demand via streaming internet. The link to view the council meeting is http://texashhsc.swagit.com/live/. 1. Call to Order. 2. Approval of the November 21, 2014 Council Meeting minutes and February 27, 2015 notes. 3. Executive Commissioner's Status Report: Update from the 84th Legislative Session (budget, legislation, cost containment, contracting). 4. Information Presentations. a. Sunset Update b. 1115 Transformation Waiver Update 5. Information Items Related to Rules.* a. Methodology for Incentives for Safety Net Hospitals, Chapter 354: The Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) proposes to amend Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 354, Subchapter A, Division 35, s354.1445 (relating to Potentially Preventable Readmissions) and s354.1446 (relating to Potentially Preventable Complications). The rules are being amended to identify a methodology for incentives for HHSC defined safety net hospitals. b. Minimum Payment Amounts to Qualified Nursing Facilities: Information on rule amendments to s353.608 to add a third eligibility period, Eligibility Period Two-A. c. Inpatient Hospital Reimbursement: Information on rule amendments to Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 355, Subchapter J, Division 4, Rule s355.8052, Inpatient Hospital Reimbursement. d. Outpatient Hospital Reimbursement: Information on rule amendments to Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 355, Subchapter J, Division 4, Rule s355.8061, Outpatient Hospital Reimbursement. e. Reimbursement Methodology for Telemedicine, Telehealth, and Home Telemonitoring Services: Information on rule amendments to Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 355, Subchapter G, Rule s355.7001, Reimbursement Methodology for Telemedicine, Telehealth, and Home Telemonitoring Services. f. HHSC Enterprise Contracting and Procurement, Chapter 391: Information on new Chapter 391 to clarify the contracting and procurement requirements for all health and human services agencies. Chapter 391 provides a clear template for HHSC contracting requirements for vendors and the public at large. g. HHSC Enterprise Contracting and Procurement, Chapter 392: Information on new Chapter 392 to clarify and streamline the contracting and procurement processes for HHS agencies. 6. Action Items Related to Rules.* a. Vision Services, Chapter 355: The Medicaid/CHIP Division proposes to amend Title 1, Part 15, Chapter 355, Subchapter J, Division 1, s355.8001 (relating to Reimbursement for Vision Care Services). The proposed amendments correct a cross reference and make other nonsubstantive language changes. The amendments to this rule are being proposed in order to coincide with other changes to rules in Chapters 354 and 363 also related to vision care. b. Vision Services, Chapter 354: The Medicaid/CHIP Division proposes to amend s354.1015, 354.1017, 354.1021, 354.1023, and 354.1025 to update and simplify rule requirements related to vision care. Simplifying these rules allows HHSC more flexibility in developing timely and evidence-based medical policy. c. Vision Services, Chapter 363: The Medicaid/CHIP Division proposes to amend s363.501, 363.502, 363.503, and 363.504 to update and simplify rule requirements related to the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT) Eyeglass Program. Simplifying these rules allows HHSC more flexibility in developing timely and evidence-based medical policy. d. Durable Medical Equipment Exceptional Circumstance: HHSC is clarifying the requirements for durable medical equipment (DME) to qualify for Medicaid reimbursement as part of home health services under "exceptional circumstances" as noted in subparagraph (a)(4)(D) of 1 TAC s354.1039. e. Tuberculosis (TB) Institution Exclusion: The Social Security Act historically precluded participation in Medicaid by an institution for tuberculosis, but the exclusion was removed. The proposed amendments remove the prohibition against a tuberculosis (TB) institution receiving Texas Medicaid payment for inpatient services. 7. Adjourn. *Public comment will be taken on this agenda item. The HHSC Council will only take actions on items listed on the agenda. Additional Information Contact: 512/487-3300
Department of State Health Services
June 12, 2015 – 10:30 AM
Austin-Health and Human Services Commission, MHMR Center, Conference Room 164, 909 W. 45th Street, Austin
Texas Radiation Advisory Board Meeting (TRAB) The Board will convene as posted to hear, consider, discuss and take formal action, as applicable and necessary, on the following agenda items, as time allows: 1. Call to order 2. Introduction of members and guests 3. Review and, as needed, discuss and take possible action concerning amendment and/or approval of the minutes of the February 27, 2015 TRAB meeting 4. Committee Reports and Recommendations A. Industrial, Nuclear Power, Uranium and Waste Committee B. Medical Committee C. Topic Research Committee 5. Program Reports A. Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) B. Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) C. Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) D. Texas Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Compact Commission (TLLRWDCC) E. U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission – DeAnn Walker, State Liaison Officer 6. Routine and Continuing Business: A. Election of a new TRAB Secretary, to replace Mark Pittman B. Discussion of issues, impacts, and potential recommendations related to the consideration of grandfathering from out-of-compact waste charges those sealed sources that were in Texas before current radioactive waste regulations were enacted (John Salsman) C. DSHS response to TRAB's Position Statement regarding radiation safety awareness training for physicians performing fluoroscopically-guided interventional procedures (Ratliff) 7. New Business A. Resolution to honor Roger Mulder's service to the State as the Governor's liaison to the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission B. Introduction of the new Governor's liaison to the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, DeAnn Walker and/or Nim Kidd (alternate) C. Consideration for approval of the TRAB's FY2014 Annual Report to the DSHS Commissioner D. Contaminated personnel and related facility issues in Houston (Free) E. Report of activities of Radiological Response Volunteer Corps, sponsored by the Conference of Radiation Control Program Directors http://www.crcpd.org/RRVC/rrvc_rfp.aspx (Free) F. Update on legislative action that may affect the TRAB (Ratliff) G. Consider and make recommendations on draft rule packet for the following sections of 25 Texas Administrative Code Chapter 289 to ensure compatibility with the new 10 CFR Part 37, Physical protection of category 1 and category 2 quantities of radioactive material (Chuck Flynn or Peggy Westlund, DSHS): i. Section 289.201, General Provisions for Radioactive Material ii. Section 289.202, Standards for Protection Against Radiation from Radioactive Materials iii. Section 289.251, Exemptions, General Licenses, and General License Acknowledgements iv. Section 289.252, Licensing of Radioactive Material v. Section 289.257, Packaging and Transportation of Radioactive Material H. Informational presentation, questions, and discussion on Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM) related to Oil and Gas Production (Judy Raab) I. Discussion NRC's July 25, 2014, Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPR), Docket ID NRC-2009-0279, related to the consideration of potential amendments to 10 CFR Part 20, the NRC's current radiation protection regulations, including consideration and potential decision regarding submission of additional comments during the comment period extended to June 22, 2015 J. Discussion and consideration of EPA's proposed rules in 40 CFR Part 192 regarding in-situ mining of uranium, consideration of comments submitted to the EPA concerning those proposed rules, and potential decision concerning submission of a letter, including a possible letter of support and/or endorsement, to the EPA (Raabe) K. Discuss the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission's proposed rule changes regarding the criteria for low-level radioactive waste disposal 10 CFR Part 61 and consider possible action or recommendations during the comment period ending July 24, 2015 (McGuire, TCEQ) 8. Public Comments 9. Identification of Agenda Items and/or topics for next or future TRAB or TRAB Committee Meetings 10. Adjourn. Additional Information Contact: John Hageman, jph@swri.org
Texas Medical Disclosure Panel
June 12, 2015 – 10:30 AM
Department of State Health Services, Exchange Building, RoomN-102, 8407 Wall Street, Austin
The Panel will meet to discuss and possibly act on the following agenda: Call to Order I. Introduction of members and guests. II. Approval of minutes from the January 23, 2015 meeting. III. Review and discussion of comments received regarding proposed rules 601.2, 601.4, 601.6 and 601.8, and possible approval to publish as adopted. IV. Discussion of FDA warning on corticosteroid injections. V. Discussion related to when a consent form must be signed. VI. Discussion and response to email from Cynthia Pulley, Driscoll Children's Hospital. VII. Continuation of the review of any other updates to 25 TAC 601.2 – 601.9. VIII. Update regarding study on readability levels of consent forms/lists. IX. Public Comment. X. Next meeting date. XI. Adjournment. Additional Information Contact: Pamela Adams, 512/834-6648
6/15/2015
Health Professions Council
June 15, 2015 – 10:00 AM
333 Guadalupe, Ste 2-225, Austin
i Call to Order, Welcome and Introductions, Review Agenda ii Announcements A. Consideration of Minutes from March 9, 2015 B. Budget and Planning Report C. Technology Report D. Training Committee Report E. Agency Roundtable F. Public Comment G. Adjourn. Additional Information Contact: John Monk, 512/305-8550
6/16/2015
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
June 16, 2015 – 08:00 AM
4900 North Lamar Blvd. (HHSC, Brown-Heatly Bldg., Public Hearing Room), Austin
STAR+PLUS Quality Council This meeting will be webcast. To access the webcast, go to http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/news/meetings.asp the day and time of the meeting. 1. Call to order. 2. Roll call. 3. Approval of the March 30, 2015, meeting minutes. 4. Legislative update. 5. Discussion of the process for adopting recommendations. 6. Discussion and adoption of the STAR+PLUS Quality Council recommendations for the 2015 Annual Report to the Executive Commissioner.* 7. Discussion of the drafting of the 2015 annual report to the Executive Commissioner. 8. Assignment of a report subcommittee.* 9. Public Comment. 10. Adjournment. *Public testimony will be taken on these agenda items. Additional Information Contact: Charles Bredwell, 512/462-6337
6/17/2015
Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
June 17, 2015 – 09:30 AM
1200 East Anderson Lane, Board Room, Austin
Negotiated Rulemaking Committee on Texas Educational Opportunity Grants for Community Colleges 1. Introductions 2. Brief Overview of the Negotiated Rulemaking Process: What it is, What it's not 3. Overview of Roles and Responsibilities A. Role of Facilitator B. Role of Sponsor Agency -Technical and administrative support C. Role of Committee Members -Representative role -Commitment to negotiate in good faith 4. Consideration of Facilitator 5. Procedural Issues A. Discussion and Consideration of Ground Rules B. Discussion and Consideration of Definition of Consensus 6. Discussion of Draft Rules Language on Allocation Methodology for TEOG for Community Colleges 7. Consideration of Proposed Rules Language on Allocation Methodology for TEOG for Community Colleges Individuals who may require auxiliary aids or services for this meeting should contact Tonia Scaperlanda, ADA Coordinator, at 512.427.6193 at least five days before the meeting so that appropriate arrangements can be made. Additional Information Contact: Mary Smith, 512/427-6213
6/18/2015
Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
June 18, 2015 – 09:30 AM
1200 East Anderson Lane, Board Room, Austin
Negotiated Rulemaking Cmt on TX Educational Opportunity Grant for Technical and Lamar State Colleges 1. Introductions 2. Brief Overview of the Negotiated Rulemaking Process: What it is, What it's not 3. Overview of Roles and Responsibilities A. Role of Facilitator B. Role of Sponsor Agency -Technical and administrative support C. Role of Committee Members -Representative role -Commitment to negotiate in good faith 4. Consideration of Facilitator 5. Procedural Issues A. Discussion and Consideration of Ground Rules B. Discussion and Consideration of Definition of Consensus 6. Discussion of Draft Rules Language on Allocation Methodology for TEOG for Technical and Lamar State Colleges 7. Consideration of Proposed Rules Language on Allocation Methodology for TEOG for Technical and Lamar State Colleges Individuals who may require auxiliary aids or services for this meeting should contact Tonia Scaperlanda, ADA Coordinator, at 512.427.6193 at least five days before the meeting so that appropriate arrangements can be made. Additional Information Contact: Mary E. Smith, 512/427-6213
6/25/2015
Texas Board of Nursing
June 25, 2015 – 10:00 AM
333 Guadalupe Street 3-460, Austin
Eligibility and Disciplinary Advisory Committee Meeting Texas Board of Nursing 333 Guadalupe Street, Suite 3-460 Austin, TX 78701 Agenda for Eligibility & Disciplinary Advisory Committee Meeting William P. Hobby Building, Tower II, Room 225 Thursday, June 25, 2015- 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 1.1 Call to Order. 1.2 Review and Approval of the Agenda. 1.3 Review and Approval of the Meeting Minutes of May 11, 2015. 1.4 Review and discussion of proposed amendments to 22 Tex. Admin. Code s213.30 and s213.33, including the Board's Disciplinary Matrix [213.33(b)]. 1.5 Review and discussion of legislation from 84th Texas Legislative Session and any necessary rule revisions resulting from statute changes 1.6 Items for Future Agenda. 1.7 Set Future Meeting Date. 1.8 Adjournment. Additional Information Contact: Kathy Hoffman, 512/305-8657
6/26/2015
Department of State Health Services
June 26, 2015 – 10:00 AM
Amarillo College, W Lecture Hall, Rm 111A, 6222 W 9th Ave, Amarillo
Education Committee of the Governor's EMS and Trauma Advisory Council (GETAC) The Committee will meet to discuss and possibly act on the following agenda: Call to Order/Roll Call Discussion and possible action on the following items: 1. Development of the Advanced Practice Paramedic/Community Health Paramedic curriculum. 2. Develop stroke specific continuing education objectives for EMS personnel certification and recertification. 3. Review the Panhandle Regional Advisory Council (RAC) request to identify existing EMS educational opportunities available in the rural and frontier areas, to identify gaps and develop strategies to fill any identified gaps. General Public Comment (Comment time may be limited at Chair's discretion) Summary for GETAC meeting report Announcements Review and list agenda items for next meeting Next Meeting Date Adjournment. Additional Information Contact: Phil Lockwood, 512/776-7111
-End of Report-
