Directs DOA, DHH, and LSU to cease all efforts to privatize state hospitals immediately
Impact
The resolution highlights the concern that the ongoing privatization process is being handled without proper legislative oversight, and the negotiations surrounding potential cooperative endeavor agreements have been conducted in secrecy. The resolution stresses the importance of allowing Louisiana's citizens and their elected representatives to have a say in healthcare reforms, particularly amid evident flaws in existing agreements such as the one involving Earl K. Long Medical Center, which has faced issues related to access to care and federal funding.
Summary
HCR51 is a House Concurrent Resolution from Louisiana that directs the Department of Administration (DOA), the Department of Health and Hospitals (DHH), and the Board of Supervisors for Louisiana State University (LSU) to immediately cease all efforts to privatize state hospitals. This resolution arises from significant reductions in federal funding for the Louisiana Medicaid program which created budget shortfalls, prompting state leaders to consider privatization as a potential solution for maintaining healthcare delivery at state facilities.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR51 reflects a desire to maintain public control over healthcare services and the importance of transparency in governance. Supporters of the resolution argue that privatization efforts, particularly those that lack legislative involvement, undermine public health policy and risks the quality of care provided to vulnerable populations who rely on these facilities. Conversely, proponents of privatization may argue for efficiency and innovation driven by private sector involvement, though their voices are less prominent in the discussions surrounding this resolution.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the manner in which the privatization is managed, the secrecy of negotiations, and concerns regarding the adequacy of healthcare services following the transition from public to private management. Critics highlight that previous agreements have not adequately addressed critical health needs, particularly in women's health and the establishment of primary care clinics. The resolution seeks to halt any further privatization until these concerns are thoroughly addressed and legislative oversight is restored.
Requests DHH to protect LSU Health Sciences Center - Shreveport hospitals from consequences of privatization which are detrimental to public health and finance, and to adequately compensate other hospitals of north and central La. for any increased burden of providing care to the poor and uninsured resulting from privatization of public hospitals
Transfers governance and control of state hospitals from LSU to human services districts and authorities of the state and provides for delivery and financing of health services by such districts and authorities (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Requires submission for approval by the House Committee on Appropriations of any cooperative endeavor agreement between the Louisiana State University Board of Supervisors and a private entity involving the change in management of a public hospital
Requires submission for approval by the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget of any cooperative endeavor agreements between the LSU Board of Supervisors and a private entity involving the change in management of a public hospital
Requires submission for approval by the House Committee on Appropriations of any cooperative endeavor agreements between the LSU Board of Supervisors and a private entity involving the change in management of a public hospital
Requires submission for approval by the Senate Committee on Finance of any cooperative endeavor arrangements between the LSU Board of Supervisors and a private entity involving the change in management of a public hospital.
Expresses support of and provides authority for actions by the Board of Supervisors of the Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College for the strategic collaboration with the division of administration and the Department of Health and Hospitals in planning for a new model of health care delivery throughout the Lake Charles region.