Louisiana Senate Bill SCR48

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/31/14
• Refer: 4/1/14
• Report Pass: 4/2/14
• Passed: 4/8/14
• Engrossed: 4/9/14
• Refer: 4/10/14
• Report Pass: 5/6/14

Caption

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.

Impact

If enacted, SCR48 would have a substantial impact on healthcare delivery in central Louisiana, particularly in Alexandria and Pineville, as it includes provisions to transfer inpatient and emergency services from Huey P. Long Medical Center to other facilities like CHRISTUS St. Francis Cabrini Hospital and Rapides Regional Medical Center. The resolution aims to maintain access to essential medical services while the healthcare landscape shifts. It also emphasizes the importance of maintaining graduate medical education programs in the region to ensure the continuity of qualified healthcare professionals.

Summary

SCR48 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution that aims to provide legislative approval for the actions of the Louisiana State University Board of Supervisors regarding the closure of the Huey P. Long Medical Center, which facilitates a new model of healthcare delivery in the Alexandria and Pineville region. The bill supports the transition towards a public-private partnership model for healthcare services in response to significant cuts in federal Medicaid funding which resulted in a budget reduction for state hospitals. The resolution expresses the legislature's approval of the closure of inpatient beds and emergency department services at this medical center.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SCR48 reflects a recognition of the pressing need for healthcare reform in light of funding challenges. Supporters of the resolution, including various healthcare administrators, view it as a necessary step to adapt to changing healthcare needs and funding realities. However, there’s a cautious sentiment among some stakeholders regarding the loss of services at the Huey P. Long Medical Center, as this may lead to community concerns over access to critical healthcare resources. The discussions express an overall commitment to ensuring that residents continue to receive adequate health services.

Contention

Notable points of contention around SCR48 include concerns from community members and healthcare workers about the closure of Huey P. Long's inpatient and emergency services, which have historically been vital for region residents. There are apprehensions about whether the new outpatient clinics and partnerships with private facilities will adequately meet the healthcare needs of the population. The legislature's approval is seen as essential, but it has sparked debates about the future of healthcare services in central Louisiana, particularly regarding the accessibility and quality of care in the transitioning system.