A bill that would allow patients in Tennessee to contract directly with primary care physicians was approved Monday in the state Senate, according to The Chattanoogan.
The Direct Primary Care bill, which will remove government restrictions and enable patients to contract directly with PCPs for their healthcare needs, was approved unanimously by a vote of 32 to zero. The measure will now move through the House.
"Direct Primary Care took a big step forward today by passing the Senate," said Beacon Policy Director Lindsay Boyd, according to the report. "This bill will restore Tennesseans' healthcare freedom and expand their access to quality care. Think of Direct Primary Care like a gym membership."
Under Direct Primary Care, patients pay as little as $40 per month to their PCP in exchange for more frequent visits and longer appointments.
"Ultimately, today is a victory for lower and middle class Tennesseans. This bill will give those without affordable access to care the opportunity to save money and receive better, more customized care that they can actually afford," said Ms. Boyd.