Louisiana House Bill HR197

Louisiana 2013 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/5/13
• Passed: 6/6/13

Caption

Requests DHH to continue developing its "Louisiana Health Finder" website to publicize consumer-oriented information on health care providers

Impact

The resolution suggests that, by enhancing the Louisiana Health Finder website, state laws may evolve to prioritize consumer access to health care information. This could lead to better-informed choices among Louisiana residents, potentially influencing their selection of health care providers and plans. Creating a more comprehensive resource for health care information is expected to support the state's efforts in improving health care delivery and patient satisfaction.

Summary

House Resolution 197, introduced by Representative Barrow, urges the Department of Health and Hospitals (DHH) to continue the development of the 'Louisiana Health Finder' website, a consumer-oriented platform aimed at providing information about health care providers in the state. The resolution highlights the importance of transparency in health care by offering residents valuable insights into the cost, quality, and performance of various health services. The initiative aligns with national trends towards greater accessibility of health care information, particularly with the recent policy changes brought by the Affordable Care Act.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HR197 appears to be supportive, as it aims to empower consumers with information that can enhance their understanding of available health care options. Stakeholders in the health care sector and consumer advocacy groups likely view it as a positive step towards improving health care access and transparency. However, further discussion may arise regarding the effective implementation of the proposed improvements and the ongoing maintenance of the Health Finder platform.

Contention

While there is generally a positive sentiment towards HR197, points of contention may arise regarding the allocation of resources and attention to finalize the Louisiana Health Finder website. Concerns about the adequacy of the information provided and how well it will reflect the diverse offerings of health care providers statewide remain important. Stakeholders may debate how to ensure that the website remains up-to-date and comprehensive, addressing issues related to the privatization of public hospitals and variances in service quality.