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.
Impact
The proposed measures put forth in SR32 would likely lead to significant changes in how long-term care facilities operate, particularly with regard to their COVID-19 response and overall healthcare delivery strategies. It encourages facilities to adopt protocols from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), thereby reinforcing existing regulations while promoting proactive measures. Moreover, the resolution aims to foster a more transparent environment by requiring facilities to report infections and keep families informed, which could have a ripple effect on patient care standards across the state.
Summary
Senate Resolution 32 (SR32) urges the Louisiana Department of Health to develop comprehensive policies to enhance the safety and health of residents in long-term care facilities, especially in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The resolution emphasizes the urgent need for these facilities to implement strict testing protocols and reporting measures to ensure the safety of both residents and staff, as there has been a high incidence of COVID-19 deaths within these environments. The bill aims to address these issues comprehensively to protect one of the state's most vulnerable populations: the elderly, particularly those with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.
Sentiment
Overall sentiment around SR32 appears to be supportive, as it aligns with broader public health goals to protect residents in long-term care settings amid the pandemic. However, there is an underlying tension regarding the adequacy of current healthcare provisions and the governance of these facilities, with advocates for residents potentially raising concerns about implementation and resource allocation to support such initiatives. The resolution reflects a general consensus on the need for enhanced safety measures but also highlights the complexities involved in executing these policies effectively.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the adequacy of existing resources at long-term care facilities to implement the proposed measures and the possible implications regarding the autonomy of these institutions versus state oversight. The resolution calls for necessary changes without direct enforcement, which may lead to debate over the responsibility and capacity of facilities to meet these guidelines. Additionally, questions may arise over how to assist facilities in overcoming barriers related to staffing and funding in order to comply with the recommended protocols, underlining the need for a well-planned strategy to support vulnerable care facilities adequately.
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)
Directs the Louisiana Department of Health to compile certain data regarding the implementation of a Medicaid managed long-term supports and services system
Requests Louisiana Department of Health to study and determine the desirability and feasibility of implementing the health home option in the medical assistance program.
Urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Health to implement a digital platform to facilitate access to behavioral health services for certain conditions
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to study programs implemented in other states or through Medicaid waiver programs to evaluate options for delaying institutionalization for frail elders.
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.