Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to study the use of scrambler therapy as an opioid alternative for the treatment of pain.
Impact
If enacted, the resolution would direct the Louisiana Department of Health to conduct a study on scrambler therapy, assessing its viability and effectiveness as a pain treatment option. This includes exploring the feasibility of coverage for scrambler therapy by both government and commercial health plans in the state. This initiative aligns with Louisiana's ongoing efforts to combat opioid dependency while providing patients with safe alternatives to manage their pain.
Summary
SCR25 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution introduced by Senator Peacock, urging the Louisiana Department of Health to examine scrambler therapy as a potential non-narcotic alternative for pain management. The resolution comes in light of the concerning opioid crisis in Louisiana, which has seen a dramatic increase in opioid-related deaths and prescriptions over the years. The bill emphasizes the urgent need for alternative treatments as many patients suffering from chronic pain are seeking relief without the risks associated with opioids.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding SCR25 is largely supportive, as it addresses a significant public health issue—the opioid epidemic—by exploring alternative solutions. The resolution reflects a growing recognition of the need for safer pain management alternatives and acknowledges the struggles of patients who cannot access effective non-opioid treatments due to financial constraints, considering current insurance practices.
Contention
Notably, the resolution has drawn attention to the limitations faced by scrambler therapy, which is still considered experimental in the U.S. and lacks broad insurance coverage. While it aims to fill a critical gap in pain management, some discussions may arise regarding resource allocation for the study and the role of the health department, making it essential to balance the urgency of addressing the opioid crisis with careful consideration of new treatment modalities.
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to issue regulations to allow the establishment of new opioid treatment programs and methadone dosing sites
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health and Louisiana commercial health insurance payors to increase reimbursement rates for autism therapy services.
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to issue regulations to allow the establishment of new opioid treatment programs and methadone dosing sites
Urges the office of behavioral health to ensure access to substance use disorder treatment in central La. pursuant to the impending closure of four residential treatment facilities in the Pineville area
Requests the Louisiana State Board of Nursing and the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners to report on the number of advanced practice registered nurses and the number of physician assistants that provide medication-assisted treatment (MAT) in Louisiana.