The Tennessee House of Representatives convened on January 16, 2025, to introduce House Bill 192, sponsored by Representative Terry. This legislative proposal aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically targeting medical treatment protocols under Title 53 and Title 63.

House Bill 192, officially titled the "Individualized Investigational Treatment Act," seeks to establish a framework for patients with life-threatening or severely debilitating illnesses to access investigational treatments that are not yet fully approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The bill outlines specific criteria for "eligible patients," which include having a qualifying medical condition, having exhausted all other FDA-approved treatment options, and receiving a recommendation from a treating physician for the investigational treatment.

Key provisions of the bill include the definition of "eligible facilities," which must operate under federal guidelines for the protection of human subjects. This ensures that any investigational treatments administered are conducted in a manner that prioritizes patient safety and ethical standards.

The introduction of this bill has sparked notable discussions among lawmakers and healthcare advocates. Proponents argue that it provides a crucial pathway for patients facing dire health situations, allowing them access to potentially life-saving treatments that are still in the investigational phase. Critics, however, express concerns regarding the safety and efficacy of such treatments, emphasizing the need for rigorous clinical trials before widespread use.

The implications of House Bill 192 extend beyond individual patient care; it raises broader questions about the regulatory landscape of medical treatments in Tennessee. Experts suggest that if passed, the bill could pave the way for similar legislation in other states, potentially transforming how investigational treatments are accessed nationwide.

As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders from various sectors, including healthcare providers, patient advocacy groups, and regulatory bodies, are expected to weigh in on the bill. The outcome of House Bill 192 could significantly impact the future of medical treatment options available to patients in Tennessee, making it a critical issue to monitor in the coming weeks.