Provides relative to nonemergency medical transportation services in Medicaid managed care
Impact
The impact of HB 817 on state laws includes significant changes to how NEMT services are integrated into Medicaid claims processing. With the explicit recognition of NEMT providers as healthcare providers, the bill enhances their standing within state regulations. The bill also imposes new reporting requirements on claims payment timeliness, which are expected to be included in the Healthy Louisiana Claims Report. By making NEMT services a focus of audit and review, the legislation aims to increase transparency and accountability in the Medicaid claims process.
Summary
House Bill 817 pertains to the provisions and recognition of nonemergency, non-ambulance medical transportation (NEMT) services within the framework of Medicaid managed care in Louisiana. This bill expands the definition of healthcare providers to include NEMT service providers, thereby recognizing their essential role in the Medicaid system. It mandates the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) to review the contracts and operations of NEMT brokers to ensure they do not favor out-of-state providers over local businesses. Such measures are aimed at enhancing local economic involvement and accountability within the Medicaid framework.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB 817 appears to be largely positive among those advocating for better access to medical transportation services for Medicaid recipients. Supporters argue that clear recognition of NEMT services as part of healthcare will improve the overall quality of care for patients needing these critical transportation solutions. However, there are underlying concerns from some stakeholders regarding the administrative burdens that the new reporting requirements may impose on healthcare providers and transportation brokers.
Contention
Notably, there have been discussions regarding the implications of prioritizing local over out-of-state providers in the context of NEMT services. While the intent is to bolster local business involvement, critics may argue that it could limit competition and availability of services. Moreover, the balance between regulatory oversight and operational flexibility for NEMT brokers can invoke debate, particularly as it pertains to service delivery in diverse regions of Louisiana. These points have been a focal point in discussions surrounding the bill and its potential effects on Medicaid managed care.
Provides relative to nonemergency, non-ambulance medical transportation services delivered through the Medicaid managed care program (RE +$154,188 GF EX See Note)
Authorizes transportation network companies to provide nonemergency medical transportation services through the state Medicaid program (EN GF EX See Note)
Authorizes transportation network companies to provide nonemergency medical transportation services through the state Medicaid program (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Authorizes transportation network companies to provide nonemergency medical transportation services through the state Medicaid program and all other publicly and privately issued health insurance plans (EG INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Requests the La. Department of Health to implement certain reforms in the nonemergency, non-ambulance medical transportation component of the Medicaid managed care program
Request the La. Department of Health to implement certain reforms in the nonemergency, non-ambulance medical transportation component of the Medicaid managed care program
Authorizes transportation network companies to provide nonemergency medical transportation services through the state Medicaid program and all other publicly and privately issued health insurance plans (Item #32) (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Requests the La. Dept. of Health modify regulations related to the nonemergency, non-ambulance medical transportation component of the Medicaid manged care program
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to authorize certain nonemergency medical transportation providers to furnish services outside of their designated regions in particular circumstances
Urges and requests the Department of Health and Hospitals to study Medicaid reimbursement and recoupment processes with respect to payments to nonemergency medical transportation providers
Provides relative to nonemergency, non-ambulance medical transportation services delivered through the Medicaid managed care program (RE +$154,188 GF EX See Note)
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to facilitate implementation of mobile integrated emergency response programs and nonemergency community paramedicine programs.