§ 42.004. SERVICES.

(a) The department shall provide kidney care services directly or through public or private resources to persons the department determines to be eligible for services authorized under this chapter.

(b) The department may cooperate with other departments, agencies, political subdivisions, and public and private institutions to provide the services authorized by this chapter to eligible persons, to study the public health and welfare needs involved, and to plan, establish, develop, and provide programs or facilities and services that are necessary or desirable, including any that are jointly administered with state agencies.

(c) The department may conduct research and compile statistics relating to the provision of kidney care services and the need for the services by persons with disabilities.

(d) The department may contract with schools, hospitals, corporations, agencies, and individuals, including doctors, nurses, and technicians, for training, physical restoration, transportation, and other services necessary to treat and care for persons with end stage renal disease.