Dec 26, 2025

Revision: The Texas Health and Human Services Commission published a notice on Nov. 20, 2025, which had a minor error. To clarify, updates were not made to the Children’s Services handbook. 

On Jan. 1, 2026, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission will update language in the Texas Medicaid Provider Procedures Manual Durable Medical Equipment, Medical Supplies, and Nutritional Products handbook and policy regarding hospital bed policies. 

In the Hospital Beds and Equipment section, the updated language will include the following: 

• A standard bed typically sold as furniture may consist of a frame, box spring, and mattress, and is of fixed height, and has no head or leg elevation adjustments. These types of beds are not:
  • primarily medical in nature
  • made with materials that can withstand frequent cleaning and disinfecting
  • primarily used in the treatment of disease or injury
  • considered Durable Medical Equipment by Texas Medicaid

In the Hospital Bed section, the updated language will include the following:

• Beds which are primarily used for the purpose of safety are not a benefit of Texas Medicaid. These beds do not meet the definition of durable medical equipment as described by 42 CFR § 414.202.

If you have questions or require assistance, please reach out to our Medicaid Provider Network Team at 855-212-1615 or email.