Healthcare

HB 677 requires psychologists and neuropsychologists to securely protect test materials and data from psychological evaluations to maintain test validity. It directly affects patients undergoing evaluations, psychologists, and mental health professionals by restricting access to test materials - only licensed psychologists or trained experts can view them, not patients or third parties. Key provisions ban third-party observers (like family or attorneys) during testing, prohibit audio/video recordings, and allow exceptions only for documented disabilities, language needs, minors with psychologist approval, or trainee supervision. The bill aims to prevent compromised test results that could impact high-stakes decisions like custody cases, medical treatments, or forensic evaluations.

HB 192, enacted as the "Individualized Investigational Treatment Act," allows patients with life-threatening or severely debilitating illnesses (after exhausting all FDA-approved treatments) to access custom-made therapies like personalized gene therapies or vaccines. It requires detailed written consent from patients and physicians outlining risks, outcomes, and financial responsibilities, while clarifying that insurers, hospitals, and manufacturers are not obligated to cover or provide these treatments. The law permits manufacturers to supply such therapies without compensation but allows them to charge patients for manufacturing costs. It also protects patients’ heirs from liability for treatment debts if the patient dies during treatment.

HB 758 establishes a licensing system for anesthesiologist assistants in Tennessee, requiring them to complete accredited education, pass a certification exam, and obtain licensure from the Board of Medical Examiners. The bill mandates that these assistants practice only under the direct supervision of a licensed anesthesiologist, who delegates specific tasks. It also makes practicing without a license a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by fines up to $1,000 or up to one year in jail. This legislation directly affects anesthesiologist assistants and the Board of Medical Examiners, creating new regulatory requirements for their scope of practice.