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6 Harris County Physician Newsletter %u2022 August 2025 %u2022 www.hcms.org%u2022 Go back to First Pagecontinued from page 3Choosing the right practice modelWith frequent changes to healthcare, physicians are looking for solutions and evaluating alternative practice models. Whether one is considering a change or simply wants information on their current practice model, HCMS and TMA have developed resources to provide much-needed information and guidance. HCMS provides information on direct care, employment, private equity, and physician autonomy in independent or employed practice on our Practice Management page at www.hcms.org/PracticeManagement. Visit the TMA Education Center for free webinars and other resources on the various practice models and settings at https://texmed.inreachce.com and select Practice Models and Settings in the category filter.Presented by the HCMS Board on SocioeconomicsClarifying Emergency Abortion Exception SB31 (the %u201cLife of the Mother Act%u201d) took effect immediately upon the Governor%u2019s signature in June. It clarifies when physicians may perform abortions under Texas%u2019s near-total ban without legal risk. The law permitsreasonable medical judgmentto interveneif the patient%u2019s condition poses a risk of death or substantial impairment of bodily function to the mother. The bill explicitly recognizes conditions likeectopic pregnancy and removing an unborn fetus whose death was caused by miscarriage. The new law shifts the burden of proof in criminal prosecutions from physicians to the state. Impact For Obstetric Providers This change provides better legal protection when acting in emergencies. Still, physicians should receive training on how to document reasonable judgment and criteria used and coordinate with hospital risk management to update emergency protocols accordingly. Next Steps for HCMS Members: %u2022Physicians should audit employment agreements and compliance policies ahead of the effective date. %u2022Physicians and office staff should review appeals workflows and ensure physician involvement in utilization review. %u2022Obgyns and ER physiciansshould familiarize themselves with new documentation standards and criteria under SB31. Presented by the HCMS Board of Medical LegislationTexas healthcare law changes coming Sept.1What are Excludes 1 and Excludes 2 denials?The ICD-10-CM manual provides diagnosis coding protocols necessary to properly code encounters. Excludes 1 and Excludes 2 notes are appended to certain diagnosis codes and inform on how to code these conditions and avoid claims denials. Consult our Excludes 1 and Excludes 2 Notations resource found at www.hcms.org/Billing-Payersfor guidance and resources.