Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HB783

Introduced
4/2/18  
Introduced
4/2/18  
Refer
4/3/18  
Report Pass
4/11/18  
Report Pass
4/11/18  
Engrossed
4/19/18  
Engrossed
4/19/18  
Refer
4/23/18  
Refer
4/23/18  
Report Pass
5/2/18  
Report Pass
5/2/18  
Refer
5/3/18  
Refer
5/3/18  
Report Pass
5/8/18  
Report Pass
5/8/18  
Enrolled
5/14/18  
Enrolled
5/14/18  
Chaptered
5/17/18  
Chaptered
5/17/18  
Passed
5/17/18  

Caption

Provides for the maximum amount of fees assessed on emergency ground ambulance service providers (EN +$6,146,480 SD RV See Note)

Impact

The passage of HB 783 is expected to impact state laws governing emergency medical services significantly. By establishing a maximum fee limit for ambulance services, the bill seeks to prevent overcharging that could burden individuals needing emergency care. Moreover, the legislation facilitates a collaborative approach between the Department of Health and ambulance service providers, which may foster a more supportive and efficient fee assessment process, benefiting both the providers and the communities they serve.

Summary

House Bill 783 aims to amend existing regulations concerning the fees imposed on emergency ground ambulance service providers in Louisiana. The bill specifically sets a ceiling on the fees that can be charged to these service providers while also allowing the Louisiana Department of Health to assess these fees at their discretion. This amendment is intended to ensure that the fees remain within reasonable bounds, promoting fairness and accessibility for emergency medical services in the state.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB 783 appears to be positive, particularly from those advocating for equitable healthcare access. Proponents argue that regulating fees will help maintain the financial viability of emergency services without placing undue financial strain on patients who rely on these services in crisis situations. However, concerns about the bill may arise from those who fear that such regulation could limit the financial sustainability of ambulance services in a rapidly changing healthcare environment.

Contention

The repeal of certain regulatory requirements, specifically the need for the Department of Health to publish information regarding fee assessments, points to a desire for streamlined processes but may also raise concerns among stakeholders about transparency and accountability. Critics argue that not providing clear information could hinder public understanding of how fees are calculated and their implications for service availability. The balance between regulation and provider autonomy remains a critical point of discussion in the legislative evaluation of this bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HB493

Provides for fees on emergency ground ambulance providers and the disposition of fees (EN INCREASE SD RV See Note)

LA HB662

Provides for a fee on emergency ground ambulance service providers (EN +$2,497,957 SD RV See Note)

LA HB204

Provides relative to Medicaid provider fees assessed on nonpublic providers of emergency ground ambulance services (EN INCREASE SD RV See Note)

LA SB34

Provides relative to emergency ground ambulance service providers. (gov sig) (EN SEE FISC NOTE SD RV See Note)

LA HB922

Revises provider fees assessed on nursing homes by the Department of Health and Hospitals (EN +$16,928,449 SD RV See Note)

LA HF643

Ambulance provider assessment program established, supplemental medical assistance payments provided for ambulance services, and ambulance services exempted from MinnesotaCare provider tax.

LA SB824

Ambulance service providers; creating the Ambulance Service Provider Access Payment Program Act. Effective date.

LA HB2950

Ambulance service providers; creating the Ambulance Service Provider Access Payment Program Act; creating fund; requiring Health Care Authority to cease collection of fees and refund providers under certain conditions; effective date.

LA LD1751

Resolve, to Direct the Department of Health and Human Services to Explore the Feasibility of an Ambulance Service Assessment Fee

LA HB551

Provides relative to fees imposed within the Medicaid program on healthcare providers, facilities, and services (OR INCREASE SD RV See Note)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.