Directs the La. Department of Health and Department of Veterans Affairs to implement policies for the health and safety of long-term care facility residents (EN SEE FISC NOTE FF EX)
Impact
HR19 mandates the establishment of protocols that include comprehensive testing for COVID-19 among residents and staff, timely reporting of positive cases, and the provision of necessary isolation measures. Moreover, it requires that each department maintain a searchable web platform containing data on COVID-19 cases at these facilities to promote transparency. This initiative is expected to significantly affect state laws governing the health regulation of long-term care facilities and could potentially improve the overall safety and management of these institutions.
Summary
House Resolution 19 (HR19) is a legislative measure in Louisiana that directs the Department of Health and the Department of Veterans Affairs to establish policies aimed at enhancing the health and safety of residents in long-term care facilities, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The resolution is rooted in concerns regarding the high rates of COVID-19 fatalities among residents of long-term care facilities, especially those with underlying health conditions, such as dementia. It emphasizes the need for safeguarding vulnerable populations by implementing specific protocols to address these challenges.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment around HR19 appears to be positive, as it addresses urgent public health needs amid the ongoing pandemic. Supporters of the resolution likely view it as a necessary step in protecting the health of some of the most vulnerable individuals in society—those residing in long-term care facilities. The emphasis on transparency and clear protocols is aimed at fostering trust among families and caregivers who are concerned about the well-being of their loved ones.
Contention
Despite general support, some contention may arise around the implementation of these policies, particularly concerning the adequacy of resources and the potential burden on long-term care facilities. Critics may express concerns regarding the feasibility of compliance, particularly as many facilities are already overwhelmed by current challenges. The resolution calls for extensive cooperation between various stakeholders, including facility staff and patient advocacy groups, which may highlight the ongoing need for dialogue and collaboration in healthcare management.
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health and Department of Veterans Affairs to implement policies for the health and safety of long-term care facility residents.
Directs the Louisiana Department of Health to compile certain data regarding the implementation of a Medicaid managed long-term supports and services system
Long-term care; directing transfer of certain employees, powers, duties and monies to State Department of Health; modifying membership of Long-Term Care Facility Advisory Board. Effective date.
Health: other; department authority to limit patient visitation in qualified health care facilities; restrict. Amends secs. 2253 & 5145 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.2253 & 333.5145).
Health: other; department authority to limit patient visitation in qualified health care facilities; restrict. Amends secs. 2253 & 5145 of 1978 PA 368 (MCL 333.2253 & 333.5145).
Encouraging the United States Department of Veteran Affairs to allow veterans to receive long-term care services at facilities that do not otherwise meet the requirements set by the department.
An Act Establishing Licensure For Long-term Acute Care Hospitals And Requiring The Department Of Public Health To Study The Designation Of Long-term Care Facilities And Chronic Disease Hospitals.
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.