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HB 828

Health, Dept. of - As introduced, directs the commissioner to conduct a study on creating new or streamlining existing pathways to careers as primary care providers in this state for individuals who have medical training as noncommissioned officers in the armed forces of the United States; requires the commissioner to conduct the study using existing department resources; requires the commissioner to deliver findings and recommendations from the study to the chief clerk of the senate, chief clerk of the house of representatives, and the legislative librarian no later than December 31, 2025. - Amends TCA Title 4; Title 33; Title 63 and Title 68.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ronnie Glynn

Tennessee Department of Health must study streamlining career pathways for military medics to become civilian primary care providers and report findings to legislature by end of 2025.

Assigned to s/c Health Subcommittee
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Bill Summary · HB 828

Legislative bill overview

HB 828 directs Tennessee's Department of Health to study how military-trained medics and corpsmen can more easily transition into civilian primary care provider careers. The commissioner must complete this study using existing departmental resources and submit findings to the legislature by December 31, 2025.

Why is this important

Primary care provider shortages affect rural and underserved areas in Tennessee. Military medical personnel already have substantial clinical training but often face licensing and credentialing barriers when transitioning to civilian practice, representing potential untapped workforce capacity. Streamlining pathways could address healthcare workforce gaps while supporting military veteran employment.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and resource allocation: Requires using "existing department resources," which may strain the health department if the study is comprehensive; unclear if this constraint limits study quality
  • Scope of credential recognition: Different states have varying approaches to military medical credential reciprocity; Tennessee may face pressure to lower standards versus properly vetting qualifications
  • Implementation timeline pressure: December 31, 2025 deadline is tight for thorough analysis of complex licensing/education requirements across multiple regulatory frameworks

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

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