Louisiana 2013 Regular Session

Louisiana Senate Bill SB55

Introduced
4/8/13  
Refer
4/8/13  
Report Pass
4/17/13  
Engrossed
4/23/13  
Refer
4/24/13  
Report Pass
5/14/13  
Enrolled
5/30/13  
Chaptered
6/10/13  

Caption

Provides for Medicaid transparency. (8/1/13) (EN NO IMPACT See Note)

Impact

If passed, SB 55 would enact significant amendments to how Medicaid services are reported and managed in Louisiana. It emphasizes the need for detailed public reporting regarding service providers, enrollees, and healthcare outcomes. Mandatory annual reporting is expected to improve operational accountability, ensuring that the Medicaid program continues to evolve in efficiency and service delivery, particularly for vulnerable populations like children and individuals with severe mental health issues. The transition to a managed care system will be closely monitored through these annual reports, aiming for a more streamlined and effective approach to healthcare management.

Summary

Senate Bill 55 focuses on enhancing the transparency and efficiency of Louisiana's Medicaid program. The bill mandates the Department of Health and Hospitals to submit an annual report detailing various metrics related to the Louisiana Medicaid Bayou Health and Behavioral Health Partnership programs. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure that the Medicaid program operates effectively, particularly in the context of a significant transition to a managed care system. The primary objectives include improving care coordination, health outcomes, accessibility, and accountability while reducing instances of fraud and waste within the system.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB 55 appears to be positive, especially from advocates of healthcare reform who see the importance of transparency and accountability in government-funded health programs. Supporters argue that thorough reporting will ultimately enhance patient care and foster improvements in the quality of services provided to Medicaid recipients. However, there may be apprehensions from some constituents regarding possible bureaucratic complexities and the implications of shifting service delivery models, specifically in terms of access to services and the management of care coordination.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its transparency initiatives, there are areas of contention that may arise as it progresses. Critics could argue that the additional reporting requirements might strain the resources of the Department of Health and Hospitals, potentially diverting attention from direct patient care. Furthermore, transition concerns into a managed care model could raise questions about continuity of services and coverage gaps, especially for populations previously accustomed to fee-for-service arrangements. The ongoing dialogue surrounding the bill will continue to highlight these issues as stakeholders weigh the benefits against potential drawbacks.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA SB109

Provides for reporting measures for the Medicaid managed care program and the Louisiana Behavioral Health Partnership program. (gov sig) (RE NO IMPACT See Note)

LA SB629

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)

LA HCR75

Requires transparency in Medicaid managed care programs operated by DHH

LA SB239

Provides relative to the Medicaid prescription drug benefit program. (8/1/19) (EN SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

LA SB262

Provides for the Louisiana Board of Emergency Medical Services. (7/1/13) (RE -$251,678 GF EX See Note)

LA SB224

Provides relative to opioid alternatives. (8/1/24) (EN NO IMPACT See Note)

LA SB148

Provides relative to postpartum depression. (8/1/24) (EN NO IMPACT See Note)

LA SB107

Provides relative to at-risk youths and development of an integrated case management system. (8/1/13)

LA SB185

Provides relative to Medicaid and certain managed health care organizations providing health care services to Medicaid beneficiaries. (1/1/14) (RR1 See Note)

LA SB30

Provides relative to facility need review. (8/1/22) (EN NO IMPACT See Note)

Similar Bills

LA SB629

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)

LA SB109

Provides for reporting measures for the Medicaid managed care program and the Louisiana Behavioral Health Partnership program. (gov sig) (RE NO IMPACT See Note)

LA HB497

Requires the Department of Health and Hospitals to implement the Medicaid health home option for persons with serious mental illness (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

LA HB1164

Creates a task force to study the delivery of integrated physical and behavioral health services for Medicaid enrollees with serious mental illness

LA SB359

Provides relative to behavioral health. (gov sig) (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)

LA HCR75

Requires transparency in Medicaid managed care programs operated by DHH

LA HB859

Requires request for proposals for a managed care organization to provide specialized behavioral health services (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)

LA HB309

Provides for cost containment, cost sharing, and long term services and supports in the Medicaid managed care program (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)