Louisiana House Bill HR14

Louisiana 2020 2nd Special Session

• Introduced: 10/12/20
• Refer: 10/12/20
• Report Pass: 10/14/20
• Passed: 10/19/20

Caption

Requests a study and report on nonemergency medical transportation in the Medicaid managed care program

Impact

HR14 seeks to address the significant issue of missed healthcare appointments among Medicaid enrollees, which can adversely affect health outcomes. The resolution emphasizes the importance of providing tailored transportation solutions to improve accessibility, thus aiming to promote better health and wellbeing among the population. Additionally, the study will investigate the existing collaboration between nonemergency medical transportation providers and the transportation brokers that Medicaid managed care organizations currently utilize, with an eye towards optimizing the delivery of these vital services.

Summary

House Resolution 14 (HR14) urges the Louisiana Department of Health to conduct a comprehensive study focused on nonemergency medical transportation (NEMT) services within the state's Medicaid managed care program. The resolution highlights the critical need for accessible transportation options, particularly illustrated during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many individuals struggled to access necessary medical care due to transportation barriers. The study aims to explore the potential for incorporating transportation network companies as providers of NEMT, as well as the benefits and challenges associated with their involvement in the healthcare system.

Sentiment

Overall, there is a favorable sentiment surrounding HR14, especially among proponents who view it as a necessary step towards enhancing healthcare access for low-income populations. The resolution suggests a proactive approach to exploring innovative solutions for transportation challenges that many Medicaid enrollees face. However, concerns may arise regarding the implementation of transportation network companies, as stakeholders will want to ensure safety, reliability, and adequacy of services offered.

Contention

Notably, HR14 raises questions about the effectiveness of existing transportation systems and the role that new providers could play in enhancing service delivery. The resolution's focus on studying other states' experiences with transportation network companies may open the door to both support for reform and opposition from traditional providers wary of competition. The critical takeaway is that the proposed study has the potential to influence future policies impacting Medicaid enrollees’ access to essential healthcare services.