Urges and requests the Department of Health and Hospitals and the Department of Education to study jointly the feasibility of utilizing Medicaid funds to fund more school nurse positions
Impact
If HCR53 is adopted, it could potentially lead to increased funding for school nurse positions in Louisiana, thereby improving the health services available to students. This funding through Medicaid could assist in addressing the pressing need for healthcare providers in schools, which is particularly relevant as research suggests that a well-staffed nursing presence can affect student achievement positively. The research mentioned in the resolution indicates that improved health management in schools correlates with less absenteeism and increased graduation rates.
Summary
HCR53 is a concurrent resolution that urges the Department of Health and Hospitals along with the Department of Education in Louisiana to jointly study the feasibility and benefits of funding additional school nurse positions through the Medicaid program. This resolution highlights the importance of school nurses in providing healthcare to students, particularly as an increasing number of students are entering school with chronic health conditions that require management during school hours. The resolution stresses that adequate nursing coverage can lead to better student outcomes, including fewer absences and higher test scores.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HCR53 appears to be supportive, as it addresses a significant need in the education system regarding student health. Lawmakers backing the resolution likely recognize the critical role that school nurses play and the potential positive outcomes of enhanced healthcare accessibility for students. While opposition or contention was not explicitly noted in the provided documents, the implementation of such studies may lead to varying opinions among districts based on their particular needs and resources.
Contention
As a resolution rather than a binding legislative bill, HCR53 does not directly change state law. However, the study and recommendations that may emerge from its adoption could stir discussions about resource allocation in healthcare and education sectors. Notable points of contention may arise regarding the use of Medicaid funds, including debates on priorities for funding and the effectiveness of such investments in school health-related services.
Urges and requests the Dept. of Health and Hospitals and LSU Board of Supervisors to conduct a study assessing the current and future delivery of health care and medical education in La. and to make recommendations
Urges and requests the Department of Health and Hospitals, in conjunction with the Board of Regents, to study the effectiveness of current licensure and certification functions for the profession of midwifery
Requests that the Dept. of Health and Hospitals, Dept. of Children and Family Services, and State Bd. of Elementary and Secondary Education study jointly the coordination of mental health and counseling resources for students
Urges and requests the Dept. of Health and Hospitals and LSU Board of Supervisors to conduct a study assessing the current and future delivery of health care and medical education in La. and to make recommendations
Urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Health to study the feasibility of funding a remote monitoring program for technology-dependent children
Requests the secretaries of the Department of Health and Hospitals and the Department of Children and Family Services to study the consolidation of the two departments into one department and to present a plan for such consolidation and related information to the legislature
Requests a study of the feasibility of the La. Children and Youth Health Insurance Program providing for reimbursement of health care services delivered at schools
Requests that BESE and the Recovery School District study jointly the feasibility of building a high school at the site of the former Alfred Lawless High School in New Orleans and account for the use of hurricane recovery funds
Urges the Department of Health and Hospitals to study the feasibility, desirability, and practicality of alternative transportation sites (i.e. urgent care clinics) for certain patients.