Healthcare

HB 229 extends the Board of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors' authority until June 30, 2029, by amending Tennessee Code Sections 4-29-246 and 4-29-250. This change removes the board's previous expiration date, allowing it to continue overseeing licensing standards for alcohol and drug counselors. The board, established under Title 68, Chapter 24, will now operate without sunset provisions until the new date.

SB 44 adds doula services to TennCare, Tennessee's Medicaid program, making coverage available for certified doulas who provide continuous emotional and physical support during labor, birth, and postpartum care. It directly affects low-income pregnant people in Tennessee who may now access doula support through TennCare. The bill requires the Department of Health to establish a certification verification process for doulas who complete approved training programs meeting specific standards, including knowledge of anatomy, support strategies, and community resources. This process will verify doulas' qualifications before they can provide services covered under TennCare.

HB 404 extends the professional music therapy advisory committee under Tennessee's psychology board until June 30, 2027. This bill updates Tennessee Code Sections 4-29-246 and 4-29-248 to formally maintain the committee's existence, preventing its automatic termination. The committee, which advises the Board of Examiners in Psychology on music therapy licensure, is directly affected by this extension. The change ensures continuity for this advisory body without altering any substantive licensing rules.

SB 403 requires Tennessee healthcare facilities receiving public funds (like Medicaid reimbursements) to cover uncompensated care costs to cancel debt equal to that funding for eligible patients. Facilities must notify patients whose debt is canceled and cannot pursue legal action for the canceled amount. The bill also mandates annual reports from the Department of Health and TennCare on uncompensated care payments to the legislature. It directly affects hospitals receiving public funds for charity care and patients with outstanding medical debt.

SB 610 requires TennCare to cover continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) for eligible members with specific diabetes conditions. It directly affects TennCare enrollees diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, gestational diabetes, or Type 2 diabetes meeting documented criteria like frequent low blood sugar episodes, high A1C levels, or hospitalizations related to diabetes complications. The bill mandates coverage only when prescribed by an endocrinologist or diabetes specialist confirming the member meets the eligibility requirements. The law takes effect January 1, 2026.