The following legislative and state agency health care hearings have been scheduled between November 22 and December 12.
11/22/2014
Department of State Health Services
November 22, 2014 – 09:00 AM
Omni Hotel, 1300 Houston Street, Ft. Worth
Disaster Emergency Preparedness 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 Recognize and welcome new members to the committee Discussion and possible action on the following items: 1. Identify and list the accomplishments of this committee since its inception and report back to the GETAC. 2. Workgroup Reports: A. Texas Disaster Medical System (TDMS) a. TDMS Mass Fatality Management report B. Emergency Medical Task Force (EMTF) report a. EMTF AMBUS (Ambulance Bus) Working Group Report b. EMTF MMU (Mobile Medical Unit) Working Group Report c. EMTF Air Medical Working Group Report d. EMTF Coordination Center Standards & Operational Guidelines 3. Medical Incident Support Team (M-IST) and Ambulance Staging Manager (ASM) Courses Report 4. Power Grid/EMP/Loss of Infrastructure 5. Ebola virus disease, recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and lessons learned related to healthcare worker exposure and the treatment and transport of exposed patients 6. Discussion of Regional Health and Medical Operations Centers (RHMOCs) 7. Legislative Update 8. Review DSHS rule at Title 25 of Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 157, Section 157.11(m)(9) to address the various requirements for an EMS provider's delivery of its patient care reports to medical facilities at the time and location of patient drop off at a medical facility, and how to improve the sharing of the medical facility's outcome data of that patient with the EMS provider. General Public Comment (Comment time may be limited at Chair's discretion) Summary of this meeting for the November 24, 2014 GETAC meeting Announcements Review and list agenda items for next meeting Next Meeting Date Adjournment. Additional Information Contact: gwen.glauninger@twc.state.tx.us
Department of State Health Services
November 22, 2014 – 10:30 AM
Omni Hotel, 1300 Houston Street, Ft. Worth
Pediatrics 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 Recognize and welcome new members to the committee Discussion and possible action on the following items: 1. Identify and list the accomplishments of this committee since its inception and report back to the GETAC. 2. Ebola virus disease, recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and lessons learned related to healthcare worker exposure and the treatment and transport of exposed patients. 3. Committee liaison reports: a. Air Medical b. EMS c. Education d. Injury Prevention e. Medical Directors f. Stroke g. Trauma Systems h. Regional Advisory Council chairs i. Disaster planning 4. Update on Child Fatality Review Teams (final report) 5. Position paper on minimizing x-ray computed tomography (CT) radiation – updates on implementation strategies and linkage to EMSC state partnership website 6. Pediatric Facility Recognition program 7. EMS for Children State Partnership update 8. Update on pediatric transfer guidelines/interfacility transport-review draft document with revisions to be shared with other GETAC subcommittees 9. Update on EMS Clinical Guidelines Project 10. Pediatric Evidence-based Guidelines: Assessment of EMS Utilization in States (PEGASUS) protocols from EMS Evidence Based Guidelines: spinal immobilization, shock, anaphylaxis/allergic reaction, airway management, which are to be implemented in Houston in the fall and six New England states in the spring 11. Quality performance metrics for the improvement of the care of children in emergent and urgent care settings, including the use of system performance improvement (PI) metrics linked to pediatrics, and integration of EMSC performance metrics 12. Trauma registry update 13. GETAC strategic plan update General Public Comment (Comment time may be limited at Chair's discretion) Summary of this meeting for the November 24, 2014 GETAC meeting Announcements Review and list agenda items for next meeting Next Meeting Date Adjourn. Additional Information Contact: kim.wolfe@dshs.state.tx.us
Department of State Health Services
November 22, 2014 – 01:00 PM
Omni Hotel, 1300 Houston Street, Ft. Worth
Injury Prevention 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 Recognize and welcome new members to the committee Discussion and possible action on the following items: 1. Identify and list the accomplishments of this committee since its inception and report back to the GETAC. 2. Ebola virus disease, recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and lessons learned related to healthcare worker exposure and the treatment and transport of exposed patients. 3. Acknowledgement of Outgoing Committee Members 4. Texas EMS and Trauma Acute Care Foundation (TETAF) and Texas Trauma Care Foundation (TTCF) Injury Prevention Reports 5. Discussion regarding state trauma reports 6. Planning for 2015 Injury Prevention Committee Activities 7. Update on Injury-Free Texas website 8. National Injury Prevention Updates General Public Comment (Comment time may be limited at Chair's discretion) Summary of this meeting for the November 24, 2014 GETAC meeting Announcements Review and list agenda items for next meeting Next Meeting Date Adjournment. Additional Information Contact: kim.wolfe@dshs.state.tx.us
Department of State Health Services
November 22, 2014 – 02:30 PM
Omni Hotel, 1300 Houston Street, Ft. Worth
Stroke 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 Recognize and welcome new members to the committee Discussion and possible action on the following items: 1. Identify and list the accomplishments of this committee since its inception and report back to the GETAC. 2. Ebola virus disease, recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and lessons learned related to healthcare worker exposure and the treatment and transport of exposed patients. 3. Update on Texas Council on Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke (TCCVDS) 4. Update on Lone Star Stroke consortium 5. Report on the progress of Regional Advisory Council (RAC) Stroke/ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) data collection funded by the Appropriations Act, Rider 97 of the 83rd Texas Legislature, 2013 6. Update on data security and governance regarding the RAC/STEMI data collection addressed in the 2013 Appropriations Act, Rider 97 7. Consider the recommendation of the Brain Attack Coalition (BAC) standards for stroke ready hospitals as a basis for acceptable certification of Level III stroke support facilities 8. Consider a stroke education program workgroup recommendation that 4 hours of stroke related continuing education be required for recertifying EMS personnel 9. Consider the Transport Bypass Workgroup for adding severity adjusted triage criteria for hospital bypass of ambulance patients when a hospital's stroke care resources are unavailable 10. Update from the Hospital Database Surveillance Subcommittee, Johanna Morton chair General Public Comment (Comment time may be limited at Chair's discretion) Summary of this meeting for the November 24, 2014 GETAC meeting Announcements Review and list agenda items for next meeting Next Meeting Date Adjournment. Additional Information Contact: kim.wolfe@dshs.state.tx.us
Department of State Health Services
November 22, 2014 – 04:00 PM
Omni Hotel, 1300 Houston Street, Ft. Worth
Air Medical 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 Recognize and welcome new members to the committee Discussion and possible action on the following items: 1. Identify and list the accomplishments of this committee since its inception and report back to the GETAC. 2. Ebola virus disease, recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and lessons learned related to healthcare worker exposure and the treatment and transport of exposed patients. 3. Presentation: Pediatric EMS Recognition Program, by Samuel Vance, EMS for Children State Partnership. 4. Report on the status of the formation of an air medical work group to participate in the Emergency Medical Task Force (EMTF). 5. Identify those interested in participating on the EMTF air medical work group and discuss meeting times and dates, and expectations of work group members. 6. Consider the reimbursement fee schedule for fixed wing aircraft disaster response and recovery Memo of Agreement. 7. Update on EMS interstate compact agreements for personnel training, certification and licensure and its effect on students doing clinical rotations, working in other states within the agreement and other factors that may be included in the agreement. 8. Report on the progress of the Trauma Systems Committee Registry workgroup, in conjunctions with Big Country Regional Advisory Council (RAC-D), in identifying issues with the Trauma Registry System. 9. Review and make recommendations for the revision of the 2002 document "A Strategic Plan for the Texas EMS/Trauma System." 10. Review of EMS rule in Title 25 of Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 157 Section 157.11(m)(9) to address the various requirements for an EMS provider's delivery of patient care reports to medical facilities at the time and location of patient drop off at a medical facility and how to improve the sharing of the facility's outcome data of that patient with the EMS provider. General Public Comment (Comment time may be limited at Chair's discretion) Summary of this meeting for the November 24, 2014 GETAC meeting Announcements Review and list agenda items for next meeting Next Meeting Date Adjournment. Additional Information Contact: kim.wolfe@dshs.state.tx.us
11/23/2014
Department of State Health Services
November 23, 2014 – 09:00 AM
Omni Hotel, 1300 Houston Street, Ft. Worth
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 Recognize and welcome new members to the committee Discussion and possible action on the following items: 1. Identify and list the accomplishments of this committee since its inception and report back to the GETAC. 2. Ebola virus disease, recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and lessons learned related to healthcare worker exposure and the treatment and transport of exposed patients. 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. 4. Continue to develop the community health curriculum for Advanced Practice Paramedic/Advanced Community Paramedic. 5. Review the 2014 state EMS-Trauma strategic plan and consider recommendations for revision. General Public Comment (Comment time may be limited at Chair's discretion) Summary of this meeting for the November 24, 2014 GETAC meeting Announcements Review and list agenda items for next meeting Next Meeting Date Adjournment. Additional Information Contact: kim.wolfe@dshs.state.tx.us
Department of State Health Services
November 23, 2014 – 10:30 AM
Omni Hotel, 1300 Houston Street, Ft. Worth
Emergency Medical Services 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 Recognize and welcome new members to the committee Discussion and possible action on the following items: 1. Identify and list the accomplishments of this committee since its inception and report back to the GETAC. 2. Ebola virus disease, recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and lessons. 3. Update on status of revisions to the EMS and Trauma Systems rules in Title 25 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC), Chapter 157. 4. Air Medical and EMS committees joint discussion regarding air medical programs that may be engaging non-EMS and non-hospital entities to dial them directly in an emergency possibly bypassing the 911 system. 5. Review of EMS rule at 25 TAC Section 157.11(m)(9) to address the various requirements for an EMS provider's delivery of its patient care reports to medical facilities at the time and location of its patient drop off at the medical facility and how to improve the sharing of the medical facility's outcome data of that patient with the EMS provider. 6. EMS for Children (EMSC) update. 7. Update from Trauma Registry Workgroup. 8. Update on EMS provider license applications for initial applicants, the administrator of record (AOR) course and other changes, implemented as a result of Senate Bill 8, 83rd Legislature, 2013. 9. Update from Emergency Medical Task Forces (EMTFs). General Public Comment (Comment time may be limited at Chair's discretion) Summary of this meeting for the November 24, 2014 GETAC meeting Announcements Review and list agenda items for next meeting Next Meeting Date Adjournment. Additional Information Contact: kim.wolfe@dshs.state.tx.us
Department of State Health Services
November 23, 2014 – 01:00 PM
Omni Hotel, 1300 Houston Street, Ft. Worth
Medical Directors 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 Recognize and welcome new members to the committee Review mission and vision statements for GETAC Vision A unified, comprehensive, and effective EMS/Trauma System for a healthy, safe Texas. Mission To promote, develop, and maintain a comprehensive EMS/Trauma System that will meet the needs of all patients and that will raise the standards for community health care by implementing innovative techniques and systems for the delivery of emergency care for the entire population. Discussion and possible action on the following items: 1. Identify and list the accomplishments of this committee since its inception and report back to the GETAC. 2. EMS patient care reports provided to receiving emergency facilities, as required by rule in Title 25 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC), Section 157.11(m)(9), and the position paper by the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), Emergency Nurses Association (ENA), National Association of EMTs (NAEMT), and the National Association of EMS Officials (NASEMSO) entitled, "Transfer of Patient Care Between EMS Providers and Receiving Facilities." 3. Consideration of ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) as a reportable disease, as suggested by the Cardiac Care Committee. 4. Pediatric EMS Recognition Program. 5. Consider endorsement of a position statement and sample clinical guidelines to be forwarded to GETAC regarding the revisions to Transportation Code, Section 724.017 by House Bill 434, 83rd Legislature, 2013, relating to the persons authorized to take a blood specimen from a vehicle operator to test for alcohol concentration or other intoxicating substances. 6. Scene control when there are multiple EMS providers, and the issue of patients being transported across state lines, particularly by air medical providers. 7. Consider additions to the GETAC Medical Directors web page at http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/emstraumasystem/medicaldirectorscomm ttee.shtm. 8. Consider recommendations and/or a position statement on various situations during which 911 EMS or air medical providers may be overused or inappropriately mandated for interfacilty transfers. 9. Report from Trauma System Committee Registry Workgroup (TSCRW). 10. Consider the approval of and submission to GETAC of talking points, a position statement and sample clinical guidelines on field clearance and/or limited spinal motion restriction. 11. Consider municipal or county letters of approval of new EMS provider applicants, as required by Health and Safety Code Section 773.0573, and 25 Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Section 157.11(b)(6)(Y), to provide guidance on determining the requirements of service levels mandated in those letters. 12. Consider position statements regarding the transport and care of patients with behavioral disorders. 13. Pediatric Transfer and Transport Guidelines. 14. Consider endorsement of the ACEP/National EMS Physicians Medical Director Board Review Course as an approved course to satisfy the Texas Medical Board (TMB) rule, 22 TAC Section 197.3(b)(17)(A)(iii). 15. Treatment options for cyanide poisoning. 16. Ebola virus disease, recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and lessons learned related to healthcare worker exposure and the treatment and transport of exposed patients. 17. Consider recommendations or a position statement on didactic and clinical training necessary in addition to appropriate testing for Community Paramedic/Paramedic Practitioner MD. 18. Consider recommendations regarding naloxone (Narcan) administration by persons not certified or licensed by DSHS. 19. CPR training requirement for a Texas driver's license. 20. The Medical Practice Act, DSHS Administrative Code rules, and the gap between them. General Public Comment (Comment time may be limited at Chair's discretion) Summary for GETAC meeting Announcements Review and list agenda items for next meeting Next Meeting Date Adjourn. Additional Information Contact: kim.wolfe@dshs.state.tx.us
Department of State Health Services
November 23, 2014 – 02:30 PM
Omni Hotel, 1300 Houston Street, Ft. Worth
Cardiac Care 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 Recognize and welcome new members to the committee Discussion and possible action on the following items: 1. Identify and list the accomplishments of this committee since its inception and report back to the GETAC. 2. Ebola virus disease, recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and lessons learned related to healthcare worker exposure and the treatment and transport of exposed patients. 3. Recognition of committee members finishing their term of service. 4. Landscape of efforts to advance ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) care in Texas: The Texas Heart Attack Coalition. 5. Report on current results of the American Heart Association (AHA) ACTION Registry. 6. Progress in establishing a joint STEMI database committee with the DSHS Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke Council. 7. Final report on DSHS Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke Program survey of Texas Regional Advisory Council STEMI data. 8. Potential for greater interaction of the GETAC Cardiac Care committee and the DSHS Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke Council. 9. Goals for the GETAC Cardiac Care committee in 2015. General Public Comment (Comment time may be limited at Chair's discretion) Summary of this meeting for the November 24, 2014 GETAC meeting Announcements Review and list agenda items for next meeting Next Meeting Date Adjournment. Additional Information Contact: kim.wolfe@dshs.state.tx.us
11/24/2014
Department of State Health Services
November 24, 2014 – 03:30 PM
Omni Hotel, 1300 Houston Street, Ft. Worth
Trauma Systems 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 Recognize and welcome new members to the committee Discussion and possible action on the following items: 1. Identify and list the accomplishments of this committee since its inception and report back to the GETAC. 2. Ebola virus disease, recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and lessons learned related to healthcare worker exposure and the treatment and transport of exposed patients. 3. Review of current DSHS EMS and Trauma System Rules, in Title 25 of the Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 157, and make recommendations to DSHS with regard to the process for applying for trauma facility designation. 4. Trauma System Strategic Plan Revisions. 5. Report: Trauma Systems Committee Registry Workgroup (TSCRW). 6. Report: Trauma Systems Committee Trauma Medical Director's workgroup. 7. Report: Trauma Systems Committee Mid-Level Provider workgroup. 8. Report: Trauma Systems Committee Regional Advisory Council (RAC) System Development workgroup. 9. Implementation: Trauma Registrar's Trauma Registry Workgroup. 10. Trauma System Survey Review. 11. Trauma Electronic Medical Record Implementation Workgroup. 12. review rule Chapter 157, Section 157.11(m)(9) to address the requirements for EMS reports at the time of patient drop off, the requirement of delivery for a complete EMS report, and how to improve the sharing of the outcome data of that patient with the EMS service. 13. Trauma Center Designation Request for Specialty Services. 14. Committee Member Stakeholder Reports a. GETAC Council b. Region VI American College of Surgeons/Committee on Trauma (ACS/COT) c. Texas Trauma Coordinator's Forum (TTCF) d. Level IV Trauma Centers e. Level III Trauma Centers f. Level II Trauma Centers g. Level I Trauma Centers h.Pediatric Trauma Centers i. Texas EMS/Trauma Foundation (TETAF) Trauma Division j. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) k. Trauma Center Administrators l. Texas Hospital Association m. Emergency Nurses Association (ENA) General Public Comment (Comment time may be limited at Chair's discretion) Summary of this meeting for the November 24, 2014 GETAC meeting Announcements Review and list agenda items for next meeting Next Meeting Date Adjournment. Additional Information Contact: kim.wolfe@dshs.state.tx.us
Department of State Health Services
November 24, 2014 – 06:00 PM
Omni Hotel, 1300 Houston Street, Ft. Worth
Governor's EMS and Trauma Advisory Council (GETAC) The Council will meet to discuss and possibly act on the following agenda: Call to Order Approval of Minutes Chair Report and Discussion Assistant Commissioner Report, Division for Regulatory Services State EMS Trauma System Report, Office of EMS Trauma Systems Coordination Assistant Commissioner Report, Environmental Epidemiology and Disease Registries Section Assistant Commissioner Report, Division for Regional and Local Health Services Preparedness Coordinating Council GETAC Committee Summary Reports: Air Medical Committee Cardiac Care Committee Disaster/Emergency Preparedness Committee Education Committee EMS Committee Injury Prevention Committee Medical Directors Committee Pediatric Committee Stroke Committee Trauma Systems Committee GETAC Liaison Summary Reports: Texas EMS, Trauma, and Acute Care Foundation (TETAF) EMS for Children State Partnership update Discussion, public comment, and possible action on the following items: Advisory Council Members (Public comment time may be limited at Chair's discretion) 1. Review of the Panhandle Regional Advisory Council's (RAC) letter of request-regarding the need for EMS educational opportunities in rural and frontier areas. 2. Committee feedback on the progress of EMS patient care reports provided to receiving medical emergency facilities, as required by rule in Title 25 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC), Chapter 157, Section 157.11(m)(9). 3. Receive and consider feedback from committees for the revision of the 2002 document "A Strategic Plan for the Texas EMS/Trauma System." 4. Standardization of various hospital internal emergency response codes for patient arrests, fire, bomb threat, and others, to ensure the codes mean the same thing in all hospitals. 5. Endorsement of the GETAC Injury Prevention Committee's document, entitled: "Hospital Based Injury Prevention Components" developed for use to enhance hospital-based injury prevention programs by defining essential core components and providing supporting materials to achieve those core components. 6. Endorsement of the GETAC Injury Prevention Committee's May 14, 2014 position paper, entitled: "Workforce Development." 7. Discussion of the use of Brain Attack Coalition (BAC) new standards for stroke ready hospitals as criteria to approve certification programs of Level III stroke support facilities. 8. Discussion and possible recommendation for stroke specific continuing education requirements for EMS personnel certification and recertification. 9. Report from all committees on their accomplishments since the inception of the committee. General Public Comment (Comment time may be limited at Chair's discretion) Review and list agenda Items for next meeting Adjournment. Additional Information Contact: kim.wolfe@dshs.state.tx.us
12/1/2014
Health Professions Council
December 1, 2014 – 10:00 AM
333 Guadalupe, 2-225, Austin
Health Professions Council Agenda The following items many not necessarily be considered in the order they appear and HPC may act on any agenda item. i Call to Order, Welcome and Introductions, Review Agenda ii Announcements A. Consideration of Minutes from September 8, 2014 Action B. Ms. Cynthia Rosas – Texas Veteran's Commission Briefing C. Technology Report – DIR Legacy Project Update – Mr. Allan Martin – ITSS Update – Website Administrator Report Briefing D. Budget and Planning Report – 1st Quarter Review Briefing E. Training Committee – Update on Last Meeting Briefing F. Administrative Committee – Update on Last Meeting Briefing G. Legal Committee – Update on Last Meeting Briefing H. Shared Services Committee – Update on Last Meeting Briefing I. Agency Roundtable J. Public Comment – – Next Meeting Monday, March 9, 2015 K. Adjourn Action. Additional Information Contact: John Monk, 512/305-8851
Department of State Health Services
December 1, 2014 – 10:30 AM
Department of State Health Services, 1100 West 49th Street, Tower Building, Room T-609, Austin
Interagency Council for Genetic Services The Council will meet to discuss and possibly act on the following agenda: Call to order Welcome and Introductions Approval of September 5, 2014 Minutes Representative Reports/Updates: -Texas Department of Insurance -Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services -University of Texas Health Science Centers -Public and Private Entities that Contract with Department of State Health Services -Department of State Health Services -Consumer Reports Update on Sunset Review Future Direction for Council Public Comment Confirm next meeting date, discuss and accept items for future meeting agenda. Additional Information Contact: kim.wolfe@dshs.state.tx.us
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
December 1, 2014 – 10:30 AM
The Perinatal Advisory Council (ITT Institute Bldg., Theory/Classrooms #3 and #4), Austin
The Perinatal Advisory Council (PAC) 1. Welcome. 2. Approval of the Minutes (Meeting October 7, 2014). 3. Discuss Tool Kits for Various Levels of Care. 4. Review feedback from Stakeholder Meeting on November 10, 2014 regarding draft rules on Neonatal Levels of Care Designation. 5. Lunch (Recess). 6. Public Comment. 7. Set agendas, dates, times and locations of upcoming meetings in 2015. 8. Adjourn. Additional Information Contact: Catherine.bartoli@hhsc.state.tx.us
12/2/2014
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
December 2, 2014 – 09:00 AM
Brown-Heatly Building, Public Hearing Room, 4900 North Lamar Blvd., Austin
Proposed Medicaid Payment Rates for Home and Community-based Services. This meeting will be webcast. Hearing. Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will conduct a public hearing on Tuesday, December 2, 2014, at 9 a.m. to receive public comment on proposed payment rate adjustments for the Home and Community-based Services waiver program operated by the Department of Aging and Disability Services. The hearing will be held in compliance with Human Resources Code §32.0282 and Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Title 1, §355.105(g), which require that public hearings be held on proposed reimbursement rates before HHSC approves the rates. Proposal. HHSC proposes to add a rate for transition assistance services to the Home and Community-based Services waiver program. The proposed rate will be effective January 1, 2015, and was determined in accordance with the rate-setting methodologies listed below under “Methodology and Justification.” Methodology and Justification. The proposed payment rate was determined in accordance with the rate-setting methodologies proposed in the Texas Register (39 TexReg 6119) and scheduled for adoption effective December 1, 2014. The methodologies will be codified at 1 TAC, Chapter 355, Subchapter F, §355.725, Reimbursement Methodology for Common Waiver Services in Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living. Briefing Package. A briefing package describing the proposed payment rates will be available at http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/rad/rate-packets.shtml on November 14, 2014. Those interested may obtain a copy of the briefing package before the hearing by contacting Rate Analysis by telephone at 512-730-7401; by fax at 512-730-7475; or by email at kyle.baxter@hhsc.state.tx.us. The briefing package also will be available at the public hearing. Written Comments. Written comments regarding the proposed payment rates may be submitted instead of, or in addition to, oral testimony until 5 p.m. the day of the hearing. Written comments may be sent by U.S. mail, overnight mail, special delivery mail, hand delivery, fax, or email. U.S. Mail Health and Human Services Commission Attention: Rate Analysis, Mail Code H-400 P.O. Box 149030 Austin, Texas 78714-9030 Overnight mail, special delivery mail or hand delivery Health and Human Services Commission Attention: Rate Analysis, Mail Code H-400 Brown Heatly Building 4900 North Lamar Boulevard Austin, Texas 78751-2399 Phone number for package delivery: 512-730-7401 Fax Attention: Rate Analysis at 512-707-7475 Email kyle.baxter@hhsc.state.tx.us
Texas Health and human Services Commission
December 2, 2014 – 10:00 AM
Brown-Heatly Building, Public Hearing Room, 4900 North Lamar Blvd., Austin
Proposed Medicaid Add-on Payment Rates for Certain Individuals in the Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions Program. This meeting will be webcast. Hearing. Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will conduct a public hearing on Tuesday, December 2, 2014, at 10 a.m. to receive public comment on proposed new add-on rates for certain individuals in the Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions (ICF/IID) program operated by the Department of Aging and Disability Services. The hearing will be held in compliance with Human Resources Code §32.0282 and Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Title 1, §355.105(g), which require that public hearings be held on proposed reimbursement rates before HHSC approves the rates. Proposal. HHSC proposes new add-on rates for certain individuals in the ICF/IID program. The proposed add-on rates will be effective January 1, 2015, and were determined in accordance with the rate-setting methodologies listed below under “Methodology and Justification.” Methodology and Justification. The proposed add-on rates were determined in accordance with the rate-setting methodologies proposed in the Texas Register (39 TexReg 8023) and scheduled for adoption effective January 1, 2015. The methodologies will be codified at 1 TAC, Chapter 355, Subchapter D, §355.456, Reimbursement Methodology. Briefing Package. A briefing package describing the proposed add-on rates will be available at http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/rad/rate-packets.shtml on November 14, 2014. Those interested may obtain a copy of the briefing package before the hearing by contacting Rate Analysis by telephone at 512-730-7401; by fax at 512-730-7475; or by email at kyle.baxter@hhsc.state.tx.us. The briefing package also will be available at the public hearing. Written Comments. Written comments regarding the proposed add-on rates may be submitted instead of, or in addition to, oral testimony until 5 p.m. the day of the hearing. Written comments may be sent by U.S. mail, overnight mail, special delivery mail, hand delivery, fax, or email. U.S. Mail Health and Human Services Commission Attention: Rate Analysis, Mail Code H-400 P.O. Box 149030 Austin, Texas 78714-9030 Overnight mail, special delivery mail or hand delivery Health and Human Services Commission Attention: Rate Analysis, Mail Code H-400 Brown Heatly Building 4900 North Lamar Boulevard Austin, Texas 78751-2399 Phone number for package delivery: 512-730-7401 Fax Attention: Rate Analysis at 512-707-7475 Email kyle.baxter@hhsc.state.tx.us
12/3/2014
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
December 3, 2014 – 09:00 AM
4900 N Lamar Blvd, HHSC, Brown-Heatly Bldg, Public Hearing Rm, Austin
STAR Kids Managed Care Advisory Committee 1. Welcome and Opening Remarks a. Member introductions b. Adopt meeting minutes from September 10, 2014 2. Update on Implementation of Senate Bill 1150 3. Member Input and Comments on Project Issues 4. Discussion on the STAR Kids Screening and Assessment Instrument (SAI) a. Presentation on STAR Kids SAI materials b. Discussion on STAR Kids SAI materials 5. Public Comment 6. Determine Priorities for Future Meetings 7. Adjourn.
Additional Information Contact: Kate Volti, 512/462-6275
House Committee on Insurance
December 3, 2014 – 10:00 AM
Capitol Extension, Room E2.036, Austin
The Committee will meet to consider the following interim charges: Charge 1: Monitor the effects of the Affordable Care Act on the availability and affordability of private health insurance coverage in Texas and on the health insurance market. Charge 2: Evaluate options to expand transparency in the health care marketplace and facilitate informed consumer choice. Monitor the implementation of prior legislation to encourage transparency and adequacy of health care provider networks. Review prior legislative attempts to achieve greater transparency and the effectiveness of regulatory efforts to minimize the negative impacts on consumers related to out-of-network service disputes. Charge 5: Examine the following aspects of the Texas auto insurance market: Methods to decrease the rate of uninsured drivers, including an evaluation of the success of current programs and possible improvements; and The benefits and drawbacks of prohibiting or restricting the use of "named driver" auto insurance policies. Charge 6: Make recommendations for any necessary reforms to address the long-term stability of the residual market for workers' compensation insurance in this state. Public testimony may be limited to three (3) minutes. Additional Information contact Beth Klunder: (512)463-0788
12/4/2014
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
December 4, 2014 – 10:00 AM
701 West 51st St. (DADS, John H. Winters Bldg., Room 560W), Austin
The Intellectual and Developmental Disability System Redesign Advisory Committee Housing Sub-Committee Meeting 1. Welcome and Introductions. 2. Review of Adaptive Aids, Availability, Cost-effectiveness, and Assistance with Living more Independently with Onsite Supports. 3. Updates: a. Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) b. Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) c. Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation (TSAHC) d. Committee Members 4. Discussion of Future Meeting Dates and Agenda Items. 5. Adjourn. Additional Information Contact: Laura Gold, 512/438-5986
House Committee on Appropriations
December 4, 2014 – 01:30 PM
Capitol Extension, Room E1.030, Austin
The House Committee on Appropriations will meet to hear invited testimony only regarding the following: State Spending Limit, Overview of the revenue estimate, Budget drivers for the 84th Legislative Session. The budget drivers will include public education, Medicaid, mental health funding, Employee Retirement System and the Teacher Retirement System. Additional Information contact Hunter Thompson: (512) 463-1091
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
December 4, 2014 – 02:00 PM
Brown-Heatly Building, Public Hearing Room, 4900 North Lamar Blvd., Austin
Proposed payment rates for the assisted living (AL) services under the Community Based Alternatives (CBA) program, CBA Personal Care III services (PCIII) and Residential Care (RC) program. This meeting will be webcast. Hearing. Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will conduct a public hearing to receive public comment on proposed payment rates for the assisted living (AL) services under the Community Based Alternatives (CBA) program, CBA Personal Care III services (PCIII) and Residential Care (RC) program. Although the CBA Waiver has ceased to exist, effective September 1, 2014, and clients have been transitioned into the managed care model under STAR+PLUS, CBA rates continue to be used by actuaries, providers, and managed care organizations for informational purposes. Accordingly, HHSC will continue to adopt payment rates and will conduct the required rate hearings. The RC program is operated by the Department of Aging and Disability Services. The payment rates are proposed to be effective January 1, 2015. The public hearing will be held in compliance with Human Resources Code §32.0282 and Title 1 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) §355.105(g), which require public notice and hearings on proposed reimbursement rates. Proposal. HHSC proposes to decrease the facility cost area rates for the CBA AL, CBA PCIII services and RC programs to reflect the most recent increase in federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments in accordance with the rate-setting methodologies listed below under Methodology and Justification. The methodologies require that when SSI is increased, the per diem reimbursement be decreased by an amount equal to that increase. Methodology and justification. The proposed rates were determined in accordance with the rate reimbursement setting methodology at 1 TAC §355.509(c)(2) for the RC program, 1 TAC §355.503(c)(2)(B) for the CBA AL service, and 1 TAC §355.503(c)(2)(D) for the CBA PCIII service. Briefing Package. A briefing package describing the proposed payment rates will be available at http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/rad/rate-packets.shtml on or after November 17, 2014. Those interested may obtain a copy of the briefing package before the hearing by contacting Rate Analysis by telephone at 512-730-7401; by fax at 512-730-7475; by email at RAD-LTSS@hhsc.state.tx.us. The briefing package also will be available at the public hearing. Written Comments. Written comments regarding the proposed payment rates may be submitted instead of, or in addition to, oral testimony until 5 p.m. the day of the hearing. Written comments may be sent by U.S. mail, overnight mail, special delivery mail, hand delivery, fax, or email: U.S. Mail Health and Human Services Commission Rate Analysis Department, H-400 P.O. Box 149030 Austin, Texas 78714-9030 Overnight mail, special-delivery mail or hand delivery Health and Human Services Commission Rate Analysis Department, H-400 4900 North Lamar Austin, Texas 78751-2316 Phone number for package delivery: 512-730-7401 Fax Attention: Rate Analysis at 512-730-7475 Email RAD-LTSS@hhsc.state.tx.us
12/5/2014
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
December 5, 2014 – 10:00 AM
4900 North Lamar Blvd (HHSC Brown-Heatly Bldg., Room 4501), Austin
Advisory Committee on Qualifications for Health Care Translators and Interpreters 1. Call to order. 2. Approval of Minutes from September 19, 2014, meeting. (vote required) 3. Report on administrative action items from last meeting. 4. Discussion on disseminating information on the committee recommendations. 5. Discussion on developing a registry for health care interpreters. 6. Public comment. 7. Discuss goals and work plan of the committee for 2015. 8. Adjourn. Additional Information Contact: Paula Traffas, 512/438-2944
Department of State Health Services
December 5, 2014 – 12:00 PM
Austin State Hospital Campus, 4110 Guadalupe Street, Bldg. 626 – Nifty-Fifty Conference Room, Austin
Texas HIV Medication Advisory Committee The Committee will meet to discuss and possibly act on the following agenda: I. Call to Order – Philip Keiser, M.D. II. Approval of previous meeting minutes (February 21, 2014) – Philip Keiser, M.D. and Committee III. Update on the Division for Disease Control and Prevention Services – Janna Zumbrun IV. Texas HIV Medication Program Budget Update – Department of State Health Services Staff V. AIDS Drug Assistance Program/State Pharmacy Assistance Program update reports -Department of State Health Services Staff VI. Discussion of cobicistat (Tybost) and elvitegravir (Vitekta) VII. Schedule next meeting – Philip Keiser, M.D. VIII. Public comments – Philip Keiser, M.D. IX. Adjourn. Additional Information Contact: kim.wolfe@dshs.state.tx.us
12/9/2014
Texas Department of Insurance
December 9, 2014 – 09:00 AM
333 Guadalupe Street, Room 100, Austin
IRO Advisory Group 1. Welcome 2. Introductions 3. Rule Process 4. Topics a. Statutory changes from HB 2645 I. Accreditation by a nationally recognized accrediting body (28 TAC Section 12.103) II. Personnel (28 TAC Section 12.204) III. Time frame for decisions (28 TAC Section 12.206) b. Certification Process – organization of rule for readability and clarity (28 TAC Sections 12.103 and 12.104) c. Fees (28 TAC Sections 12.401 – 12.406) 5. Public Comments. Additional Information Contact: Victoria Ortega, 512/305-7315
Senate Committee on State Affairs
December 9, 2014 – 10:00 AM
Capitol Building, Room 2E.20, Austin
The Committee will take up the following Interim Charge: Monitor the actuarial and financial conditions of the pension and health care programs administered by the Teacher Retirement System (TRS) and the Employees Retirement System (ERS). Invited testimony only. Additional Information contact: Gretchen Grigsby (512)463-0380
Texas Health and Human Services Commission
December 9, 2014 – 01:00 PM
Amon Carter Community Center, Lena Pope Campus, 3200 Sanguinet St., Fort Worth
Health and Human Service Commission Stakeholder Feedback Session on Recent Expansion of STAR+PLUS to Provide Acute Care Services to Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Call-in: 1-877-226-9790, Access Code: 1101316. Health and Human Service Commission (HHSC) is gathering feedback from people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), their family members, advocates, and providers of acute care and long-term services and supports regarding the transition to STAR+PLUS for people with IDD needing acute care services. HHSC will not be presenting information during these sessions, but instead will ask for public comment in the form of feedback and will collect information and ideas that may affect future managed care initiatives. All interested parties are invited to attend and participate. 1. Opening Remarks 2. Listening Session / Questions and Answers 3. Adjourn. Contact: Heather Kuhlman, Communications Specialist, Health and Human Services Commission, 512-462-6356, Heather.Kuhlman@hhsc.state.tx.us.
12/11/2014
Department of State Health Services
December 11, 2014 – 10:00 AM
Pickle Research Campus, Commons Building, 10100 Burnet Road, Austin
Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Committee Meeting of the Governor's EMS and Trauma Advisory Council The Committee will meet to discuss and possibly act on the following agenda: Call to Order/Roll Call Recognize and welcome new members to the committee Discussion and possible action on the following items: 1. Review entirety of Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Emergency Medical Services rules at Title 25 of Texas Administrative Code (TAC), Chapter 157, including DSHS staff's draft proposed revisions/amendments to 25 TAC Chapter 157 Sections 157.11, entitled: Requirements for an EMS Provider License, 157.12, entitled: Rotor-wing Air Ambulance Operations, 157.13, entitled: Fixed-wing Air Ambulance Operations, 157.14, entitled: Requirements for a First Responder Organization License, 157.16, entitled: Emergency Suspension, Suspension, Probation, Revocation or Denial of a Provider License, 157.32, entitled: EMS Education Program and Course Approval, 157.33, entitled: Certification, 157.34, entitled: Recertification, 157.36, entitled: Criteria for Denial and Disciplinary Actions for EMS Personnel and Applicants and Voluntary Surrender of a Certificate, 157.38, entitled: Continuing Education, 157.40, entitled: Paramedic Licensure, 157.43, entitled: Course Coordinator Certification and consider providing input on proposed revisions or amendments. General Public Comment (Comment time may be limited at Chair's discretion) Summary of this meeting for the February 2015 quarterly GETAC meeting Announcements Review and list agenda items for next meeting Next Meeting Date Adjournment. Additional Information Contact: kim.wolfe@dshs.state.tx.us
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