The Texas Medical Board issued emergency rules earlier this month for physicians who come in contact with patients in their facilities. For hospitals, this includes keeping 15% of their capacity for COVID-19 patients. Doctor’s offices are required to post a sign in their offices stating that they would be following the four rules set forth in the Board’s order.
Jackson Walker Healthcare Chair Virginia Alverson Mimmack breaks down the four rules, and what would happen if those rules are not followed.
- Everyone must wear masks.
- Patients must abide by screening procedures.
- Offices must establish screening procedures.
- N-95 masks and proper PPE are required whenever there is contact with a mucus membrane.
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The music is by Eve Searls.
This podcast is made available by Jackson Walker for informational purposes only, does not constitute legal advice, and is not a substitute for legal advice from qualified counsel. Your use of this podcast does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Jackson Walker. The facts and results of each case will vary, and no particular result can be guaranteed.
Related Insights:
Texas Medical Board Issues Emergency Rule in Response to Governor Abbott’s Hospital Capacity Executive Order »
Like the governor’s order, the emergency rule went into effect on Friday, May 1, and sets forth minimum standards for safe practice required of all physicians when engaging in an in-person patient encounter. The rule includes masks requirements, screening policies, minimum safety requirements, and Safe Practice Notice posting requirements.
Governor Abbott Permits Certain Medical Procedures, Updates Guidelines for Senior Care Facilities »
On April 17, 2020, Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued Executive Order No. GA-15 relating to hospital capacity and personal protective equipment (PPE) needed for the COVID-19 response.
Governor Abbott Lifts Restrictions on Surgeries, Requires Reservation of 15% of Hospital Capacity for COVID-19 Patients, and Continues Guidelines for Senior Care Facilities »
Healthcare professionals, hospitals, and outpatient surgical facilities may now perform any medically necessary or appropriate surgeries and procedures as agreed with the patient. GA-19 does require licensed hospitals to reserve 15% of hospital capacity for treatment of COVID-19 patients, accounting for the range of clinical severity as determined by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).
Related Resources:
Please note: This article and any resources presented on the JW Coronavirus Insights & Resources site are for informational purposes only, do not constitute legal or medical advice, and are not a substitute for legal advice from qualified counsel. The laws of other states and nations may be entirely different from what is described. Your use of these materials does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Jackson Walker. The facts and results of each case will vary, and no particular result can be guaranteed.
