HB 384 -- HEALTH CARE

CO-SPONSORS:  Johnson (61), Riback Wilson (25), Ladd Baker,
Gambaro, Bray, Boucher, Johnson (90)

COMMITTEE ACTION:  Voted "do pass" by the Committee on Children,
Families and Health by a vote of 13 to 0.

This bill removes language prohibiting the use of general
revenue funds for certain health care programs and initiatives.
The bill allows any other funds to be used for these health care
programs and initiatives.

The bill also requires the Director of the Department of Health
to include dentists in the development and implementation of a
plan to provide a system of coordinated health care services
accessible to all persons in rural and urban areas of Missouri,
particularly areas designated as health resource shortage
areas.  Currently, dentists are not included in the plan to
attract health care practitioners to these areas.

FISCAL NOTE:  Estimated Net Cost to Health Initiatives Fund of
Unknown in FY 2002, FY 2003, and FY 2004.  Cost could exceed
$100,000 annually.  Estimated Net Effect on Health Access
Initiative Fund of $0 in FY 2002, FY 2003, and FY 2004.
Estimated Net Effect on Medical School Loan and Loan Repayment
Fund of $0 in FY 2002, FY 2003, and FY 2004.

PROPONENTS:  Supporters say that individuals in Missouri have a
difficult time accessing dental services primarily due to the
shortage of dentists.  Each year more dentists are retiring than
are graduating from dental school.  Dental services are minimal
or non-existent in rural and urban areas of the state.  This
legislation would be a step in the right direction to encourage
new dentists to practice in Missouri.

Testifying for the bill were Representative Johnson (61);
Missouri Primary Care Association; Missouri State Medical
Association; and Department of Health.

OPPONENTS:  There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

Joseph Deering, Legislative Analyst

Missouri House of Representatives
Last Updated November 26, 2001 at 11:43 am