Requests the LSU Board of Supervisors and the governor to keep the Huey P. Long Medical Center open and viable.
Impact
The resolution emphasizes the socioeconomic implications of keeping the Huey P. Long Medical Center operational, noting that it is one of the largest employers in the region. By highlighting the employment aspect, the resolution connects healthcare provisions to local economic stability. The facility's reputation as one of the best medical training centers in Louisiana is noted, which may also influence future healthcare professionals to serve in the area, enhancing the quality of healthcare available to the community.
Summary
SCR25, a concurrent resolution, urges the Louisiana State University Board of Supervisors and the governor to maintain the operations of the Huey P. Long Medical Center in Pineville. This medical center plays a critical role in delivering healthcare services to the region, particularly to low- and moderate-income individuals, including those reliant on Medicare and Medicaid. Its closure would result in significant healthcare access issues for the residents not only of Rapides Parish but also for those in at least eight neighboring parishes, underscoring its importance in the state’s healthcare network.
Sentiment
Discussions surrounding SCR25 reflect a general sentiment of support for the preservation of the Huey P. Long Medical Center. Lawmakers express a unified recognition of the vital services provided by the facility, particularly in terms of public health and community welfare. There is a palpable concern over the potential adverse effects of any decision that might jeopardize the center's operations, indicating a commitment to maintaining healthcare accessibility for vulnerable populations.
Contention
While the resolution itself does not appear to encounter significant opposition, the underlying tension regarding budgetary constraints faced by the state suggests potential future debates. The balance between governmental fiscal responsibility and the necessity for accessible healthcare might provoke discussions on funding allocations. Thus, while SCR25 serves a definitive purpose in supporting healthcare access, it also opens the door to considerations on the broader implications of state-managed healthcare sustainability.
Expresses support for the Huey P. Long Medical Center, the Central La. State Hospital, the Red River Treatment Center, and the Pinecrest Supports and Services Center and urges and requests that these facilities remain open, public, and viable
Expresses support for consolidation of inpatient and outpatient services at Huey P. Long Medical Center to create a sustainable and economically feasible model, and requests the governor, LSU and DHH, to take all actions necessary to streamline services and create a fiscally responsible, viable public medical center in central Louisiana.
Expresses support for consolidation of inpatient and outpatient services at Huey P. Long Medical Center to create a sustainable and economically feasible model, and requests the governor, LSU and DHH, to take all actions necessary to streamline services and create a fiscally responsible, viable public medical center in central Louisiana.
Provides for legislative approval of and support to the Board of Supervisors of Louisiana State University for the strategic collaboration with the state in creating a new model of health care delivery in the Alexandria and Pineville area.
Requests the Department of Health and Hospitals to study possible methods which would increase the provision of graduate medical education in central Louisiana by designating certain hospitals which enter into public/private partnerships with Huey P. Long Medical Center as major teaching hospitals for purposes of Medicaid reimbursement.
Requests the Department of Health and Hospitals to protect certain hospitals from the negative financial consequences of the closure of the Earl K. Long Medical Center by adequately compensating such hospitals for their increased burden of providing health care to the poor and uninsured residents of the greater Baton Rouge region.
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