OKLAHOMA CITY – A resolution authored by Rep. Chris Sneed, R–Fort Gibson, aimed at removing barriers to health care access in rural Oklahoma is now under consideration in the Senate after passing the House. 

House Concurrent Resolution 1007 (HCR1007) requests an exemption from the federal Stark Law, which prevents physicians from referring patients to medical facilities in which they have a financial interest. While the law was designed to prevent conflicts of interest, it can have unintended consequences in rural areas with limited providers.

“We’ve lost many physicians who would love to practice in rural Oklahoma, but federal restrictions are standing in the way,” Sneed said. “This resolution is a huge incentive to bring doctors back to our small towns and drive more health care access where it’s desperately needed.” 

If approved, the resolution would allow Oklahoma to seek relief from the Stark Law and related federal rules that make it harder for rural physicians to operate clinics, labs or other needed services in their communities. 

Sneed added, “Oklahoma is leading the way nationally on this issue. We’re taking bold steps to make health care more accessible for every Oklahoman—no matter their ZIP code.” 

HCR1007 now moves to the Senate for adoption.