Louisiana Senate Bill SR83

Louisiana 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/7/11
• Refer: 6/7/11
• Passed: 6/13/11

Caption

Requests the LSU Health Sciences Center-Shreveport and the Department of Health and Hospitals to study the healthcare needs of the Northeast Louisiana Delta region and to make recommendations to the legislature which would increase the provision of healthcare in that area of the state.

Impact

The passage of SR83 underscores the legislative recognition of the unique healthcare challenges faced by rural areas in Louisiana, particularly the Northeast Delta region. It aims to galvanize a comprehensive assessment of healthcare accessibility and quality in an area designated as a Health Professional Shortage Area. The resulting recommendations from the proposed study could lead to legislative changes or funding initiatives that address gaps in healthcare services and help mitigate barriers faced by rural residents, improving overall health outcomes in the community.

Summary

SR83 is a Senate Resolution introduced by Senator Thompson, aimed at addressing the healthcare needs of the Northeast Louisiana Delta region. This region faces significant challenges, including a poverty rate nearly double the national average and a chronic economic depression that affects healthcare access for its residents. The resolution urges the LSU Health Sciences Center-Shreveport and the Department of Health and Hospitals to conduct a thorough study of these healthcare needs and make recommendations to improve healthcare provisions in this underserved area. By focusing on effective solutions, the sponsors hope to enhance healthcare delivery for those disproportionately affected by socioeconomic challenges.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR83 appears to be positive, with a strong emphasis on addressing inequalities in healthcare access. There is a shared understanding among lawmakers of the need for targeted interventions in rural healthcare. Proponents of the resolution express hope that a detailed study will lead to actionable recommendations and improvements in health services, reflecting a collective desire to diminish healthcare disparities that plague economically disadvantaged regions. However, as the resolution is focused on a study and not direct funding or policy change, it may also elicit concerns regarding the timeliness and effectiveness of the recommendations.

Contention

While SR83 is largely framed as a constructive initiative, there may be underlying contentions regarding the approach to solving healthcare access issues. Critics of studies like this might argue that recommendations without immediate action or funding will not sufficiently address the urgent healthcare needs of the region. Furthermore, there may be discussions about the effectiveness of current systems in Louisiana and whether new studies will lead to tangible changes or simply add another layer of bureaucratic reporting. The success of this initiative will ultimately depend on the commitment of state resources to address the identified needs.