Tennessee House Bill HB2347

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/26
• Refer: 2/5/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 68, relative to healthcare facilities.

Impact

If passed, this bill would require the Health Commissioner to conduct a study on caregiver usage across state lines and compile a report detailing findings and legislative recommendations for Tennessee. The report is to be submitted by December 31, 2026, indicating a long-term approach to enhancing caregiving measures. By understanding how neighboring states incorporate caregiver support, Tennessee aims to reflect on and possibly revise its healthcare approach to better serve patients and their support systems.

Summary

House Bill 2347 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 68, which relates to healthcare facilities. The bill seeks to study the use of designated caregivers for admitted patients in hospitals within neighboring states. It emphasizes understanding the prevalence and identifying best practices for the utilization of designated caregivers, which can include relatives, partners, friends, or neighbors who assist patients at home after discharge. The legislation encourages the collection of data on these practices to potentially improve patient care in Tennessee hospitals.

Contention

While the bill appears straightforward and aimed at improving patient care post-discharge, it may generate discussions regarding funding, resource allocation, and how these studies will inform actual legislative changes. Lawmakers might debate the practicality of implementing findings from the study and the legislative recommendations that may arise. Additionally, there could be concerns regarding the adequacy of support for caregivers and whether the state will provide additional resources to facilitate the identified best practices.