Sec. 31.003. PRIMARY HEALTH CARE SERVICES PROGRAM

(a) The board may establish a program in the department to provide primary health care services to eligible individuals.

(b) If the program is established, the board shall adopt rules relating to:

(1) the type, amount, and duration of services to be provided under this chapter; and

(2) the determination by the department of the services needed in each service area.

(c) If budgetary limitations exist, the board by rule shall establish a system of priorities relating to the types of services provided, geographic areas covered, or classes of individuals eligible for services.

(d) The board shall adopt rules under Subsection (c) relating to the geographic areas covered and the classes of individuals eligible for services according to a statewide determination of the need for services.

(e) The board shall adopt rules under Subsection (c) relating to the types of services provided according to the set of service priorities established under this subsection. Initial service priorities shall focus on the funding of, provision of, and access to:

(1) diagnosis and treatment;

(2) emergency services;

(3) family planning services;

(4) preventive health services, including immunizations;

(5) health education; and

(6) laboratory, X-ray, nuclear medicine, or other appropriate diagnostic services.

(f) Except as limited by this section, the department shall develop an integrated framework for the equitable provision of services throughout the state and shall use existing public and private health, transportation, and education resources.

(g) The board should require that the services provided under this chapter be reserved to the greatest extent possible for low-income individuals who are not eligible for similar services through any other publicly funded program.

Acts 1989, 71st Leg., ch. 678, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1989.