Healthcare

HB 32 removes legal restrictions preventing hospitals and certain healthcare facilities from directly employing radiologists, pathologists, anesthesiologists, and emergency physicians. The bill amends Tennessee law (specifically Titles 47, 63, and 68) by deleting provisions that previously barred these specialists from being classified as "physicians" under employment rules or required indirect employment models. This change allows hospitals to hire these physicians directly or through third-party agreements without violating state regulations. The policy affects hospitals, healthcare facilities, and the specified physician specialties by eliminating prior barriers to direct employment.

HB 1236, the "Tennessee Health SNAP Act," would require Tennessee's Department of Human Resources to seek a federal waiver from the USDA to prohibit SNAP (food stamp) benefits from being used to purchase candy and soft drinks. If approved, this restriction would directly affect SNAP recipients in Tennessee who currently use benefits for these items. The bill mandates that the waiver request include public health justification, a plan for retailer system updates, recipient education on healthy alternatives, and a tracking system for spending and health data. It also requires annual reports to state leaders on the waiver status and impact. The bill is pending Senate action and would take effect July 1, 2025, if enacted.

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.