Two independent experts appointed to scrutinize the system described “a disjointed and dangerous child protection system … where harm to children is at times overlooked, ignored or forgotten.”
Health And Human Services Commission
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Coronavirus in Texas
As coronavirus hits Texas, the state’s top health official is spending 30 hours a week on a second job — that pays $600,000
Acting Executive Commissioner Phil Wilson chose not to accept salary and benefits for a temporary position leading one of Texas’ largest and most high-profile agencies. Instead, he continues to earn $636,694 from the Lower Colorado River Authority, more than double what the previous health commissioner made.
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Coronavirus in Texas
Texas will test all residents and staff in state-run homes for people with disabilities
The test kits for residents of state supported living centers have been ordered and are on their way. The agency is “working on a broader plan to get the test kits for staff,” a state official said.
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Coronavirus in Texas
Texas is testing everyone in nursing homes for coronavirus, but not state-run homes for people with disabilities
The facilities are still only testing residents and patients who are symptomatic or were potentially exposed to the virus, despite concerns raised by employees and family members about outbreaks.
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Coronavirus in Texas
Coronavirus tests are supposed to be free. Some Texans are still being saddled with large bills.
Congress directed most insurance companies to cover test costs for insured patients in March, and has promised to reimburse providers for testing those who are uninsured.
But experts say there are gaps in the protection that can leave patients surprised with bills.
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Coronavirus in Texas
Texas still won’t say which nursing homes have COVID-19 cases. Families are demanding answers.
Citing a state medical privacy law, Texas is refusing to release the names of long-term care facilities where residents have died from COVID-19, even as those case numbers soar and families plead for information.
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Coronavirus in Texas
Texas will not release information about coronavirus clusters at state-run homes for Texans with disabilities
Residents’ families, restricted from visiting in an effort to stop the spread, are pleading for information. Even they aren’t being told how severe the outbreaks are where their loved ones live.
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Coronavirus in Texas
Medical offices are struggling during the pandemic. Texas health officials are proposing a $334 million lifeline.
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission sent the request to Gov. Greg Abbott and a panel of state legislators.
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Coronavirus in Texas
Texas requests federal funding to cover coronavirus testing for the uninsured
The federal funds became available in mid-March. Texas has more than 5 million uninsured residents, or about 18% of its population, a higher rate than any other state.
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Coronavirus in Texas
Expecting a rush of COVID-19 patients, hospitals prepare their most important resource: health care workers
With elective procedures canceled, hospitals are reassigning staff. But even the best-laid plans may go awry if clinicians fall ill in large numbers.
