Louisiana House Bill HR173

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/18/16
• Refer: 5/19/16
• Report Pass: 5/24/16
• Passed: 6/3/16

Caption

Urges the Dept. of Health and Hospitals not to establish freestanding emergency departments as a type of licensed facility in this state

Impact

By discouraging the establishment of FEDs, HR173 aims to preserve the integrity of existing healthcare systems and foster the development of more affordable and efficient care methods. The resolution suggests that enhancing primary care access and creating hospital-affiliated clinics in underserved areas would be more beneficial for the health system. This could lead to better healthcare outcomes and resource allocation, particularly for regions struggling with healthcare professional shortages.

Summary

House Resolution 173 urges the Department of Health and Hospitals in Louisiana to refrain from establishing freestanding emergency departments (FEDs) as licensed healthcare facilities, except in limited circumstances that demonstrate significant need. The resolution recognizes that while FEDs provide emergency care separate from hospitals, their proliferation could contribute to rising healthcare costs, particularly because they often charge higher prices than hospital emergency rooms. The resolution expresses concern that allowing FEDs would counteract efforts to control inflation in healthcare costs and could lead to inappropriate use for non-emergency conditions, thereby straining resources needed for primary care.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HR173 is largely preventative; it is a cautious approach to healthcare regulation that reflects a broader concern about cost management in Louisiana's health system. Supporters appreciate the resolution's aim to curtail potentially unnecessary facilities that could inflate costs, while critics may view it as restrictive to healthcare innovation and access in times of need. However, the strong bipartisan support, evidenced by the House vote of 88-3 in favor, indicates a shared consensus regarding the need to protect both public health and fiscal responsibility.

Contention

While there is a strong inclination to prevent the establishment of FEDs, the notable point of contention relates to balancing access to emergency healthcare in underserved areas. Some advocates argue that in regions with limited healthcare options, allowing certain FEDs to operate could be vital in addressing immediate health crises. Thus, while the resolution outlines a restrained approach to licensing, it implies that exceptions may be warranted if compelling evidence of medical necessity is demonstrated, which could leave room for debate on specific cases of potential FED licensing.