Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HCR119

Introduced
6/5/17  
Introduced
6/5/17  
Engrossed
6/6/17  
Engrossed
6/6/17  
Passed
6/8/17  

Caption

Requests the La. Department of Health to make recommendations concerning the prospective establishment of an independent claims review process for dental services provided through the Medicaid managed care program

Impact

If enacted, HCR119 would lead to the establishment of a more systematic and independent approach to resolving claims disputes between dental providers and Medicaid managed care organizations. This independent review process is anticipated to provide better clarity and resolution for issues specifically related to dental services, thereby potentially improving access to care for Medicaid recipients who rely on dental treatments. The bill establishes a framework for stakeholder engagement that includes managed care organizations and dental associations, highlighting the importance of collaboration among various parties involved in dental health service provision.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 119 (HCR119) urges the Louisiana Department of Health to collaborate with stakeholders in the dental care field to establish an independent claims review process for dental services under the Medicaid managed care program. The resolution recognizes the unique nature of dental services and recommends the formation of a specific review process to handle disputes involving Medicaid dental claims, which were not included in a prior bill focused on general healthcare claims (HB 492). By addressing the distinct needs of dental claims, HCR119 aims to enhance the efficiency and fairness of Medicaid service delivery for dental care providers and their patients.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR119 appears to be positive, particularly among dental care providers and stakeholders who perceive the need for an independent claims review process as critical for effective healthcare delivery. Supporters argue that the resolution addresses significant gaps in the handling of dental care claims within the Medicaid program, thereby advocating for better service efficiency. However, it is essential to recognize that while there might be overwhelming support from specific groups, there could be broader implications and concerns regarding the administrative processes and operational changes mandated by the establishment of the review process.

Contention

While HCR119 is largely seen as a step forward in improving the handling of Medicaid dental claims, some debate may arise regarding the extent of stakeholder involvement and the potential administrative burden associated with implementing these recommendations. Additionally, the differences between the new proposed process for dental claims and existing systems for other healthcare services may lead to discussions on equity and consistency in Medicaid claim operations. Nonetheless, the overall intent remains to enhance procedural fairness and responsiveness to the unique nature of dental service disputes.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

LA HCR84

Directs the La. State Law Institute to reorganize and recodify the Miscellaneous Health Provisions chapter of Title 40 of the La. Revised Statutes

LA HCR196

Urges and requests a study of the means by which the La. State Board of Nursing may obtain access to investigative records

LA HCR173

Requests that the Bd. of Regents and the State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education, with the Taylor Foundation, La. Office of Student Financial Assistance, public postsecondary education management boards, and certain others, study certain issues relative to TOPS

LA HCR104

Requests the Louisiana Workforce Commission and the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs to study employment practices and professional licensing requirements to benefit veterans in the workforce

LA SB31

Provides for the repeal of certain inactive or obsolete healthcare laws. (8/1/22)

LA SB212

Provides for the membership of the Prescription Monitoring Program Advisory Council. (8/15/10)

LA HB874

Makes supplemental appropriations for Fiscal Year 2017-2018

LA SCR65

Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.