Authorizes local entities to consult with the Department of Health and Hospitals for technical assistance relative to funding for health care purposes. (gov sig) (EN INCREASE FF RV See Note)
Impact
If enacted, SB 235 is likely to impact the administrative relationship between local government entities and the state health department. It would formalize the framework for local entities to seek assistance in locating additional funding, potentially increasing the financial resources allocated to local health initiatives. The provision allows for a broader range of collaboration, which could lead to improved health outcomes as municipalities are better equipped to address their specific healthcare needs.
Summary
Senate Bill 235 seeks to enhance healthcare funding for local entities in Louisiana by authorizing parish and municipal governments to consult with the Department of Health and Hospitals for technical assistance. This legislation is aimed at empowering local governments to better identify and secure funding from various public and private sources. By fostering collaboration between these entities and the Department of Health, the bill aims to maximize available resources for health-related programs and services within the state.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding SB 235 is supportive, particularly from local government officials and health advocates. They view the bill as a necessary step toward enhancing local autonomy in healthcare funding and improving community health services. The emphasis on collaboration with state health departments is seen as a positive development that can lead to innovative solutions within local health systems.
Contention
While the bill has received broad support, some concerns have been raised regarding the reliance on state departments for technical assistance. Critics worry that this approach may create dependency on state-level decisions, potentially stifling local initiatives that do not align with the state's priorities. Additionally, there are questions about whether the available funding will indeed translate into tangible improvements in local healthcare services.
Provides for certain "transparency" reporting to the legislature by the Department of Health and Hospitals concerning the Louisiana Medicaid Bayou Health program and the Louisiana Behavioral Health Partnership and Coordinated System of Care programs. (8/1/12)
Creates the Dept. of Health and Hospitals and Children and Family Services, abolishes the Dept. of Health and Hospitals (DHH) and the Dept. of Children and Family Services (DCFS), and creates separate entities within the new department as successors to the abolished departments (RE INCREASE See Note)
Authorizes the city of Bogalusa, subject to voter approval, to levy a provider fee on the operation of hospitals within the city that may provide to DHH funding for state expenses for the Medicaid program within the city. (gov sig) (EN INCREASE LF RV See Note)
Abolishes the Department of Health and Hospitals and the Department of Social Services and creates the Department of Health and Social Services (OR DECREASE GF EX See Note)
Abolishes the Department of Health and Hospitals and the Department of Children and Family Services and creates the Department of Health and Social Services (OR DECREASE GF EX See Note)
Authorizes local hospital assessments in certain parishes to fund the nonfederal share of Medicaid costs of health care provided in those parishes (EN INCREASE LF RV See Note)