Louisiana House Bill HR222

Louisiana 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/15/18
• Passed: 5/16/18

Caption

Designates May 16, 2018, as Louisiana Primary Care Association Day at the state capitol and commends LPCA

Impact

The resolution highlights the economic and social impact of the LPCA's network, which operates over 250 sites across Louisiana and serves nearly 385,000 patients annually. The LPCA's model not only fosters improved health outcomes but also generates significant economic benefits, including the creation of 4,682 jobs and $567 million in economic impact. Importantly, it has achieved substantial healthcare savings for both the overall system and Medicaid, reinforcing the seamless integration of community health initiatives into the fabric of local economies.

Summary

HR222 is a resolution that designates May 16, 2018, as Louisiana Primary Care Association Day at the state capitol, aiming to recognize the substantial contributions of the Louisiana Primary Care Association (LPCA) over its thirty-five years of service. The LPCA plays a pivotal role in providing healthcare access to all citizens of Louisiana through a network of community health centers, thus promoting affordable and quality primary care services, especially for the uninsured and medically underserved. The resolution commemorates the LPCA's long-standing commitment to enhancing public health within the state.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding HR222 is positive, as it acknowledges the vital role of the LPCA in ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to necessary healthcare services. The designation day assists in elevating awareness of primary care's importance, encouraging collaboration between community health providers, and fostering connections to statewide health improvement efforts. Legislative members who support the resolution appreciate the association’s efforts to alleviate disparities in patient care, making public health a priority in the region.

Contention

While HR222 is a resolution with generally favorable support, it subtly highlights the ongoing conversations about the funding and support for community health initiatives in Louisiana. Notably, the emphasis on preventative care and chronic disease management points to a recognition of the need for sustained investment in public health infrastructure. This is an area that could encounter scrutiny in future legislative sessions focusing on budget allocations and the importance of adequately funding community-based health services.