Relating to physical examination requirements for patients admitted to an inpatient mental health facility.

SB 1608 requires inpatient mental health facilities in Texas to conduct a physical exam of new patients within 48 hours of admission, with exams typically needing to be done in person. The bill allows telemedicine exams only during a governor-declared disaster. It specifically applies to facilities in counties with fewer than 200,000 residents, mandating the 48-hour timeline for those locations. The law takes effect September 1, 2025, and applies only to admissions occurring on or after that date.