Establishes the Community Health Caucus of the Legislature of Louisiana.
Impact
SCR73 highlights the critical contribution of community health centers, which facilitate over 800,000 patient visits annually, resulting in substantial savings for the healthcare system. Furthermore, these centers support job creation and contribute to state and local tax revenues, thereby demonstrating their integral role in both public health and economic stability within communities. By establishing the caucus, the Legislature aims to elevate the importance of community health issues in legislative discussions and decision-making processes.
Summary
Senate Concurrent Resolution 73 (SCR73) aims to establish the Community Health Caucus within the Legislature of Louisiana. This initiative is designed to enhance the legislative focus on community health centers, which serve as essential providers of primary care in underserved areas across the state. The resolution recognizes the significant role these centers play in ensuring healthcare access for Louisiana's most vulnerable populations, particularly the uninsured.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SCR73 is largely positive, reflecting a broad acknowledgment among legislators of the importance of community health centers. The resolution appears to be supported by various stakeholders within the healthcare community, as it provides a platform for voices advocating for better healthcare access and greater emphasis on public health legislative matters. Lawmakers who represent communities that benefit from these health services seek to bolster their influence on related legislation.
Contention
Despite the overall positive reception, there may be points of contention regarding the resources and attention devoted to the Community Health Caucus as opposed to other pressing health issues. Some critics may argue about the efficacy of creating an additional legislative caucus, questioning whether it would lead to actionable changes or if it merely serves as a symbolic gesture. The success of SCR73 will ultimately depend on the caucus's ability to effectively advocate for community health needs and to translate its influence into tangible improvements in healthcare policy.
Designates May 16, 2018, as LPCA Day at the legislature and commends the LPCA and the state's community health centers for their continued commitment to promoting access to high quality primary healthcare in 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.