The department is specifically authorized by law to distribute anti-rabies biologicals and to receive reimbursement based on the department's current contract.
  (1) Options for reimbursement will be in accordance with policies set by the department, and are as follows:
    (A) The patient or patient's agent will provide the department proof of viable insurance coverage. If the insurance does not pay or does not pay the entire amount, the patient or patient's agent may be responsible for any outstanding balance.
    (B) Proof of inability to pay. If a patient is unable to pay, the patient will be required to sign a statement that he/she will provide the department with financial information to pursue a reduced amount charged.
  (2) Refusal to pay. The department shall have the right to seek reimbursement in the event of a refusal to pay by a patient, or by his or her third-party coverage or other legally obligated source. A county or district attorney or the Texas Attorney General, upon request of the department, may initiate suit or other proceeding in the county of the recipient's residence.
  (3) The issuance of anti-rabies biologicals will not be withheld due a patient's inability to pay.

Source Note: The provisions of this §97.124 adopted to be effective March 5, 1982, 7 TexReg 743; amended to be effective February 5, 1998, 23 TexReg 756; amended to be effective August 28, 2003, 28 TexReg 6855; amended to be effective September 6, 2007, 32 TexReg 5700