Louisiana House Bill HB152

Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/27/17
• Refer: 3/27/17
• Refer: 4/10/17

Caption

Provides for implementation and funding of a Medicaid managed long-term services and supports system (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

Impact

The bill necessitates the Louisiana Department of Health to initiate the implementation of the MLTSS system by October 1, 2017, with complete setup expected by October 1, 2018. It highlights the need for competitive bids to select managed care plans and outlines the funding mechanism through the Louisiana Medical Assistance Trust Fund. Revenues from healthcare premium assessments paid by Medicaid managed care organizations will be allocated to the MLTSS account to support the operational costs associated with the system's implementation.

Summary

House Bill 152 aims to implement and fund a Medicaid managed long-term services and supports (MLTSS) system in Louisiana. This bill marks a significant step towards providing long-term care services through a capitated managed care program, thus streamlining the delivery of care for individuals requiring long-term support due to age or disability. The legislation emphasizes that establishing this system is a fiscal and public health priority for the state and aims to improve the quality of care and services for vulnerable populations.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 152 appears quite supportive among healthcare advocates and lawmakers who view it as a crucial advancement for Medicaid services in Louisiana. Proponents argue that by transitioning to a managed care approach for long-term services, the state can ensure better care coordination and improved health outcomes. However, concerns may arise regarding the adequacy of funding and the potential impact on existing services during the transition period, so skepticism exists among some stakeholders about the practical execution of such a system.

Contention

Though not deeply contentious, the bill does raise discussions about the challenges in implementing a managed care model, particularly in terms of ensuring that services are not only adequately funded but also tailored to meet the specific needs of beneficiaries. Critics may point out that a transition to an MLTSS model might displace certain traditional service providers or alter service delivery in ways that could affect quality, thus requiring careful regulatory oversight to mitigate potential negative consequences.