DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HB 579 Engrossed 2016 Regular Session Robert Johnson
Abstract: Authorizes a licensed dietitian or nutritionist to directly order dietary plans for patients
and to request laboratory tests for monitoring the effectiveness of dietary plans.
Present law authorizes a licensed dietitian or nutritionist to assess nutritional needs and recommend
a dietary plan to the patient's primary healthcare provider.
Proposed law retains present law and further authorizes a licensed dietitian or nutritionist employed
by a healthcare facility licensed by the Dept. of Health and Hospitals to directly order the dietary plan
and appropriate laboratory tests to monitor the effectiveness of the dietary plan subject to the
approval of and authorization by the licensed healthcare facility's medical staff or bylaws.
(Amends R.S. 37:3083(1)(f))
Summary of Amendments Adopted by House
The Committee Amendments Proposed by House Committee on Health and Welfare to the
original bill:
1. Restore present law.
2. Limit the authority to directly order the dietary plan and laboratory tests to dietitians and
nutritionists employed by a healthcare facility licensed by DHH subject to approval of
the facility.
3. Make technical changes.