To solve the stateโs budget crisis, lawmakers are considering sweeping cuts to almost everything, from school funding to child welfare services. But a $300-million-a-year cancer institute championed by Gov. Rick Perry and Lance Armstrong has so far escaped the budget knife.
Department of State Health Services
Dewhurst, Nelson Unveil Health Care Bills
Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst and Sen. Jane Nelson, R-Grapevine, introduced two bills Wednesday they believe could save the state a significant amount of money and produce “healthy patient outcomes.”
Dewhurst, Nelson Unveil Health Care Bills
Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst and Sen. Jane Nelson, R-Grapevine, introduced two bills Wednesday they believe will save the state money by increasing “healthy patient outcomes.”
Texas vs. “Obamacare”: How the Words Stack Up
Senate lawmakers unveiled bills today to reform how health care is paid for and how providers are held accountable for patient outcomes. Here’s a look at how the wording of Texas’ proposed reform legislation compares to the wording of the often-maligned federal health care reform law in Washington.
Is Medicaid Fraud Up? Or Is the State Getting More Vigilant?
The quickest way to curb the state’s reeling Medicaid costs? Eliminating fraud and recovering funds, state officials say. โI just donโt think people out there have any idea how much money is being scammed,โ said Sen. Jane Nelson, R-Grapevine.
Doctor Loan Repayment Deal in Jeopardy
More than 100 Texas doctors made a deal with the state: For four years, they would practice in underserved communities and treat the neediest patients โ in return for having their med school debt forgiven. But now state officials may be backing down from their side of the bargain.
Health Care Advocates Offer Emotional Testimony
From patients and parents to nurses and practitioners, the many faces of Texans affected by health care budget cuts gathered at the Capitol today to give an earful to lawmakers on the Senate Finance Committee.
Lawmakers Get Strong Message On Health Funds
The Senate Finance Committee heard public testimony today on proposed cuts to health and human services.
Suehs Warns Lawmakers On Health Cuts
Health and Human Services Commissioner Tom Suehs pulled no punches when he warned Senate lawmakers today what proposed budget cuts will mean: either cutting the number of people served, or the money paid to those who care for them.
TribBlog: Disability Rights Advocates Sue Perry
Disability rights advocates filed a class-action lawsuit today claiming that six Texas officials, including Gov. Rick Perry, violated the rights of more than 4,200 residents in state-supported living centers.

