Louisiana Senate Bill SR7

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/8/19
• Refer: 4/9/19
• Report Pass: 4/24/19
• Passed: 4/25/19

Caption

Requests the Louisiana Department of Health and the Louisiana Department of Education to coordinate an awareness effort to have children screened for scoliosis.

Impact

The resolution aims to enhance the awareness of scoliosis and streamline the screening process in Louisiana. Given that routine pediatric care includes screenings for various health concerns, SR7 seeks to ensure that scoliosis is prioritized, advocating for parental and educational involvement in recognizing early symptoms. The intended outcome is a more efficient system for identifying potential cases of scoliosis at an early stage, which could lead to less invasive treatment options if detected promptly. Additionally, with most children in Louisiana covered under health insurance, the resolution also seeks to ensure that these preventive services reach every child.

Summary

Senate Resolution 7 (SR7) urges the Louisiana Department of Health and the Louisiana Department of Education to collaborate on a campaign to raise awareness about scoliosis screening for children. The resolution highlights the importance of early detection and treatment of scoliosis, a condition that often develops unnoticed in childhood. By prompting legislative action, SR7 underscores the necessity of routine screening as part of pediatric care, particularly during well-child visits. The resolution aligns with guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics and other professional medical organizations, emphasizing the need for preventive health measures for children.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR7 appears to be largely positive among health advocates and professionals. Supporters likely view the resolution as a critical step toward better health outcomes for children, while some educators may also be appreciative of the proactive stance being taken to involve parents and school staff in the detection of scoliosis. Nonetheless, discussions around the bill may raise concerns regarding the implementation of such awareness efforts and their integration into existing health care frameworks.

Contention

While SR7 is a resolution and does not propose specific regulations or policies, potential contention may arise concerning resource allocation and practical execution of the awareness campaign. Questions may surface about how effectively the Louisiana Department of Health and Education can coordinate their efforts and whether this initiative could divert attention or funding from other pressing health issues. Future discussions may seek to address these points to ensure a well-rounded approach to child health services in Louisiana.