Louisiana Senate Bill SR162

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/26/14
• Passed: 5/27/14

Caption

Requests the Department of Health and Hospitals and the division of administration to report to the Senate and House committees on health and welfare why the operation of the Earl K. Long Medical Center Mental Health Emergency Room Extension was not continued upon privatization of that hospital, and how such services will be resumed in Baton Rouge.

Impact

The resolution highlights the significant savings achieved during the MHERE's operation, with over $20 million saved by avoiding unnecessary hospital admissions for more than 65% of its patients. With the closure of the MHERE, emergency rooms and local institutions are now experiencing an increased influx of individuals grappling with mental health and substance abuse issues. The request for a report aims to investigate the implications of the MHERE's absence and to ensure that the community's needs for mental health services are addressed in a timely manner.

Summary

Senate Resolution 162, introduced by Senator Broome, seeks to address the discontinuation of the Mental Health Emergency Room Extension (MHERE) at the Earl K. Long Medical Center following its privatization in 2013. This resolution urges the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals and the division of administration to report to the relevant legislative committees regarding the reasons for the closure of the MHERE and to outline plans for reinstating mental health services in Baton Rouge. The MHERE had previously offered crucial emergency and outpatient support for individuals in behavioral health crises, effectively reducing the burden on hospitals and local law enforcement.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR162 appears to be supportive of reinstating mental health services, framed by a clear concern for the community's growing struggles with mental health crises. Stakeholders recognize the importance of having specialized facilities to help manage crises effectively and believe that prompt action is necessary to mitigate the negative impacts of the service's discontinuation. The bill reflects an understanding of the intersection between mental health, healthcare services, and budgetary considerations for the state.

Contention

While the resolution itself is not inherently contentious, underlying issues may arise regarding how the state intends to manage and fund the restoration of mental health services. Questions about the comparative efficiency of privatized versus public health services may become focal points of debate. Additionally, stakeholders might express differing opinions on the adequacy of proposed measures to provide the necessary level of care, which could lead to further legislative discussions and community engagement to ensure that effective mental health support is upheld.