WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 1487

Relating to the participation of an advanced practice registered nurse as a participating or preferred provider for health maintenance organizations and preferred provider benefit plans.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Charles Perry

Texas bill requires HMOs and PPOs to include advanced practice registered nurses as participating providers, expanding healthcare access and workforce utilization in underserved areas.

Referred to Health & Human Services
#healthcareproviders(i0387) #insurance--health&accident(i0422) #nurses&nurseaides(s2704) #occupationalregulation--healthoccupations(i0540)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1487

Legislative bill overview

SB 1487 would require health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and preferred provider organizations (PPOs) in Texas to accept advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) as participating or preferred providers. Currently, these insurance plans may exclude APRNs or limit their participation, even when they are licensed healthcare providers capable of delivering certain medical services.

Why is this important

This bill addresses healthcare access and workforce utilization in Texas. APRNs (nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, and others) can provide primary care and many specialist services, particularly in underserved rural areas. Expanding their participation in insurance networks could increase provider availability, potentially lower costs, and improve access to care in regions with physician shortages.

Potential points of contention

  • Insurance industry concerns: HMOs and PPOs may argue that provider network decisions should remain flexible and market-driven, and that mandating APRN inclusion increases administrative burden and network management complexity
  • Physician opposition: Some medical associations may resist expanded APRN roles, citing concerns about quality control, liability, and the distinction between APRN and physician credentials despite overlapping scopes of practice
  • Implementation details: The bill doesn't specify whether APRNs must be reimbursed at the same rate as physicians, creating potential disputes over payment parity and financial implications for insurers and providers

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

Sign in to ask a question.