Requires state-affiliated physicians to serve on the State Medical Disability Board upon request of the Firefighters' Retirement System
Impact
HB66 would impact state laws by formalizing the role of state-affiliated physicians in the operations of the State Medical Disability Board. This bill requires that such physicians accept the request to serve, thereby enhancing the board's functionality in assessing disability claims related to firefighters. The requirement for written requests from the FRS adds a layer of procedural formality, ensuring that the board can operate efficiently while also creating accountability mechanisms for the requests made to physicians.
Summary
House Bill 66, introduced by Representative Montoucet, aims to ensure that physicians affiliated with the Louisiana State University (LSU) Health Sciences Centers are required to serve on the State Medical Disability Board upon request of the Firefighters' Retirement System (FRS). The bill defines 'state-affiliated physician' as those who either belong to the faculty of an LSU Health Sciences Center or have admitting privileges at an LSU hospital or clinic and are engaged in state-related employment. This is a notable shift in the responsibilities of these medical professionals and intends to ensure that qualified applicants are available to serve on this important board.
Sentiment
The general sentiment surrounding HB66 appears to be supportive among legislators who recognize the importance of having qualified medical professionals on the State Medical Disability Board. Advocates argue that having state-affiliated physicians ensures that the board is staffed by those who understand the unique challenges faced by firefighters and can provide accurate medical assessments. However, there are potential concerns regarding the obligatory nature of this service, which may be perceived as an imposition on the physicians’ time and professional commitments.
Contention
One of the notable points of contention regarding HB66 could revolve around the implications of mandating service on the State Medical Disability Board. Some may argue that while the intent is to enhance quality and consistency in medical evaluations, it might overburden physicians who already have demanding duties. The balance between fulfilling professional responsibilities and serving on a governmental board could create friction among those affected. Thus, while the bill aims to streamline operations, it also raises questions about the obligations placed on state-affiliated physicians.
Establishes a task force to study a prospective requirement for service by certain physicians on the State Medical Disability Board upon request of the Firefighters' Retirement System
Provides that a member of the Firefighters' Retirement System is not eligible for disability retirement benefits if his disability is indirectly a result of a preexisting condition (EN DECREASE APV)
Requests the Firefighters' Retirement System to study the feasibility of merging members of the New Orleans Firefighters' Pension and Relief Fund hired after a certain date into the system
Requests the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners to study the potential outcomes of allowing sanctioned physicians to practice under supervision and its impact on the physician shortage
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to create a task force to study, identify, and make recommendations to address the specialist physician shortage in the state
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to continue the task force to study, identify, and make recommendations to address the shortage of specialist physicians in this state
Provides an exception to certain provisions of the ethics code to allow a licensed physician to perform the duties of certain positions at the Louisiana Department of Health and to practice medicine outside of the performance of such duties