Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to facilitate implementation of mobile integrated emergency response programs and nonemergency community paramedicine programs.
Impact
The proposed resolution aims to create a pilot program in a defined geographic area, which will be developed in collaboration with key stakeholders, including healthcare providers and managed care organizations. This initiative is expected to identify obstacles to implementation, create standards for execution, and ensure financial sustainability through appropriate funding mechanisms. The Louisiana Department of Health will play a central role in this effort, working to evaluate the health outcomes generated by the program and exploring potential shared savings with Medicaid managed care organizations.
Summary
Senate Resolution No. 178, introduced by Senator Bishop, urges the Louisiana Department of Health to implement mobile integrated emergency response programs and nonemergency community paramedicine programs. The resolution is grounded in evidence suggesting that such programs can significantly reduce healthcare costs and improve patient outcomes. By facilitating care post-hospital discharge and addressing preventable hospital readmissions, the resolution seeks to promote a more efficient use of healthcare resources within Louisiana's healthcare system.
Sentiment
General sentiment around SR178 is positive among those who recognize the potential benefits of reducing emergency room overutilization and enhancing community health services. Advocates argue that mobile integrated emergency response programs can address pressing healthcare challenges while delivering care more effectively and cost-efficiently. However, any sentiments of contention may revolve around funding allocation and the practicalities of implementation in the pilot program. Concerns about how these programs will affect current emergency medical services also exist among some healthcare professionals.
Contention
While the resolution encourages the development of innovative patient care solutions, there may be concerns regarding the specifics of program funding. The implementation of the pilot program hinges on securing adequate financial resources without affecting the current emergency medical transportation budget. Additionally, there could be debates over the scope of practice laws and whether the proposed programs align with existing regulations. Overall, this resolution signifies a movement towards modernizing healthcare delivery in Louisiana, yet it raises important questions about balancing innovation with traditional practices.
Urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Health to facilitate implementation of mobile integrated emergency response programs and nonemergency community paramedicine programs
Requests Louisiana Department of Health to study and determine the desirability and feasibility of implementing the health home option in the medical assistance program.
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to authorize certain nonemergency medical transportation providers to furnish services outside of their designated regions in particular circumstances
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to study Medicaid rates for nonemergency medical transportation services and potential means for financing those services.
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
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
Creates a task force to study meaningful oversight of the professional healthcare licensing boards statutorily created within the Department of Health and Hospitals.