Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to update the Medicaid outpatient laboratory fee schedule to cover all CPT codes related to respiratory viral panels.
Impact
If enacted, SR132 would lead to significant changes within Louisiana's Medicaid program regarding coverage for laboratory testing. By updating the fee schedule to incorporate respiratory viral panels, hospitals and healthcare providers would be able to administer these tests without financial burden related to non-reimbursement. This could enhance the overall healthcare delivery and efficiency in diagnosing respiratory illnesses, ultimately improving patient outcomes and potentially limiting the spread of infectious diseases.
Summary
Senate Resolution 132 (SR132), introduced by Senator McMath, calls upon the Louisiana Department of Health to revise its Medicaid outpatient laboratory fee schedule. The resolution specifically requests that all applicable CPT codes concerning respiratory viral panels be included. The aim of this resolution is to ensure that healthcare providers who are part of the Louisiana Medicaid program can receive proper reimbursement for conducting these critical tests, which are essential for timely diagnosis and treatment of respiratory infections.
Sentiment
The general sentiment around SR132 appears to be supportive, particularly among healthcare providers who see the value of including respiratory viral panels in Medicaid coverage. It recognizes the importance of addressing public health concerns, especially following the heightened awareness of respiratory infections due to recent global health events. However, there may also be concerns regarding budget implications for the state Medicaid program and potential opposition from entities wary of increasing expenditures.
Contention
While SR132 presents a proactive approach to healthcare improvement, there might be points of contention regarding its feasibility. Some stakeholders may argue about the potential financial ramifications for taxpayers and the Medicaid budget. Additionally, the resolution's effectiveness will depend on the Department of Health's responsiveness to the requests outlined, including considerations of how quickly they can adapt the fee schedule to reflect the necessity of these tests in a timely manner.
Urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Health to amend the state Medicaid plan to extend pregnancy coverage to individuals at or below 185% of the federal poverty level.
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to authorize coverage through the Medicaid program for portable oxygen concentrators, when medically necessary.
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to form a group to study alternative tools to inform reimbursement rates for outpatient behavioral health services
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to apply for a waiver from the United States Department of Heath and Human Services to allow Medicaid reimbursement for individuals, including juveniles in detention.
Urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Health to assist in the development of a public service campaign to foster awareness and education on perinatal mental health care.
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to review Medicaid prior authorization criteria for L-glutamine which is used to treat acute complications caused by sickle cell disease
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health and its Medicaid program to update the outpatient laboratory fee schedule to reflect coverage of all related Current Procedural Terminology codes for respiratory viral panels
Creates the "Utility Line Worker", the "Louisiana Soccer Association", and the Louisiana Respiratory Therapist "RT STRONG" special prestige license plates