HB 1516-S2 - DIGEST

(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 3/09/05)

Finds that "kids get care" assures that integrated preventive medical, oral, and developmental health services are provided to young children. Improving the delivery of well child visits, preventive oral health services, and developmental screening can reduce the need for hospitalization, caries treatment, and developmental interventions.

Provides that "kids get care" expands the use of evidence-based preventive measures in community health centers and private medical practices that treat many low-income children. "Kids get care" also strengthens the connections between social service agencies working with low-income families and local health care providers.

Declares an intent to facilitate low-income children's access to appropriate preventive and well-child services and to other necessary health, mental health, and dental services by supporting the extension of the successful "kids get care" model for delivering health services to children.

Requires an interim report to be provided to the appropriate committees of the legislature by June 30, 2006, on the program's effectiveness and cost savings. A final report shall be provided by June 30, 2007.

Provides that the act shall be null and void if appropriations are not approved.