This article was submitted by TMA's Legal Department and will be updated periodically.

The following new laws enacted by the 2026 General Assembly are effective or will be effective soon and may be of special interest to physicians since they could require action or reporting. Others are for information only. Contact the TMA Legal Department at 800-659-1862, ext. 1645 or legal@tnmed.org with any questions.

LAWS EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY

Information only – no reporting/action required by physicians

Biomarker Testing – PC 929

A health insurer that issues, amends, delivers, or renews a contract or agreement for a health benefit plan on or after Jan. 1, 2026 to provide coverage for biomarker testing in specified circumstances. Review PC 929 for the circumstances.

Medical Necessity Determinations – PC 697 

An individual working for a health plan or other corporate entity who makes determinations regarding the medical necessity of a service is practicing medicine in Tennessee and must have a Tennessee medical license and is subject to oversight by the licensing board. Law Guide topic: Practice of Medicine

Parent Access to Minor Children Records Summary – PC 883

This new law makes several important amendments relative to parental access to the medical records of unemancipated minors. Click here to access a detailed explanation. Law Guide: Minors, Treatment of Guide

Tort Liability for Gender Care – PC 794

A health care professional is subject to a civil cause of action if he/she coerces a patient into gender care or procedures. The law extends the statute of limitations for this tort. Law Guide topic: Malpractice 

Treatment of Self and Immediate Family – PC 935

A law addressing physician self-treatment and treatment of immediate family may conflict with licensing board policy. Before you find yourself in this situation, please closely review it. Law Guide topic: Physician Self Treatment or Treatment of Family Members

LAWS EFFECTIVE JULY 1

Action Required by Physicians

Toxicology Testing & Kratom – PC 950

If a treating physician orders toxicology testing for a patient with a suspected drug overdose or suspected neonatal abstinence syndrome, it must include testing for the presence of Kratom. Review PC 950.

Information only – no reporting/action required by physicians

Vaccination Quality Measures – PC 797

Prohibits health insurance carriers from penalizing physicians for patients that opt out of vaccinations when calculating bonus payments. Law Guide topic: Vaccine Quality Measure Calculation (New topic)