Senate Bill No. 984 aims to enhance access to individualized investigational treatments for patients suffering from life-threatening or severely debilitating illnesses in Texas. The bill introduces Chapter 491 to the Health and Safety Code, which defines key terms such as "individualized investigational treatment," "life-threatening illness," and "severely debilitating illness." It establishes eligibility criteria for both healthcare facilities and patients seeking access to these treatments, emphasizing the need for informed consent and the role of the patient's physician in recommending such treatments based on genomic analysis.

The bill also outlines the responsibilities of manufacturers and healthcare facilities regarding the provision of these investigational treatments, including the potential costs involved. Importantly, it protects patients' heirs from liability for any debts related to the treatment if the patient passes away while receiving it. Additionally, the legislation prohibits state interference in patients' access to these treatments and ensures that healthcare providers cannot face punitive actions solely for recommending investigational treatments. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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