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Bill

Bill

SB 1

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 16, TITLE 18, TITLE 29, AND TITLE 31 OF THE DELAWARE CODE, AND CHAPTER 237, VOLUME 83 OF THE LAWS OF DELAWARE, RELATING TO PRIMARY CARE SERVICES.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Frank Cooke and 10 co-sponsors

Delaware bill amends healthcare codes to modify primary care service delivery regulations, potentially expanding provider types and affecting access, licensing, and insurance requirements statewide.

Passed By House. Votes: 41 YES
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1

Legislative bill overview

SB 1 amends multiple sections of Delaware Code to modify regulations and requirements related to primary care services delivery. The bill affects healthcare licensing, practice standards, and potentially insurance or payment mechanisms for primary care providers across several code titles. The specific amendments address gaps or needed updates in how primary care is regulated and delivered within the state.

Why is this important

Primary care serves as the foundation of most healthcare systems, affecting access to preventive care and chronic disease management for Delaware residents. Changes to primary care regulations can impact physician supply, insurance coverage, wait times, and the ability of underserved communities to access basic healthcare services. This bill directly influences the healthcare landscape that impacts most state residents' ability to receive routine medical care.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of provider changes: Amendments across four separate titles suggest potential expansion of who can deliver "primary care" (physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants), which may create opposition from professional medical associations concerned about patient safety or physician job security
  • Insurance and reimbursement implications: Changes to payment mechanisms or insurance requirements could increase or decrease costs for patients and insurers, creating opposing interests between healthcare providers and insurance companies
  • Rural vs. urban access: New regulations might inadvertently advantage urban areas with more providers while disadvantaging rural communities, or vice versa, depending on the specific requirements enacted

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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