Louisiana House Bill HCR26

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/10/19
• Refer: 4/15/19

Caption

Requests that the La. Department of Health resume implementation of a Medicaid managed long-term services and supports system

Impact

The passage of HCR26 could significantly affect Louisiana's Medicaid system by transitioning individuals who depend on institutional care to managed long-term services in home-and community-based settings. This shift is seen as a critical step in responding to the needs of thousands on waiting lists for home services. Advocates assert that increasing access to home-based care could lead to considerable savings for the state, as institutional care tends to be costlier than community-based support services. The resolution highlights prior estimates by LDH officials, suggesting potential savings of around $70 million per year, along with generating additional revenues through premium taxes from Medicaid managed care organizations.

Summary

HCR26 is a concurrent resolution that urges the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) to resume efforts to implement a Medicaid Managed Long-Term Services and Supports System (MLTSS). This system is designed to provide long-term care for individuals with developmental, intellectual, age-related, and physical disabilities through a capitated Medicaid managed care program. The resolution seeks to bring forth an MLTSS system that is expected to improve the quality of care and offer a wider array of service options for Medicaid enrollees, while also containing costs for the state Medicaid program.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR26 appears to be positive among those advocating for improved long-term care services. Proponents of managed care argue that MLTSS not only provides better quality care options but also aligns with the preferences of many individuals needing support. On the flip side, there may be concerns regarding the implementation of such a system, especially related to ensuring that adequate services are available to meet the demand for home care over institutional settings. The sentiment reflects a broader debate about how best to provide long-term care in a manner that meets diverse individual needs.

Contention

While there is strong support for HCR26, notable points of contention could arise regarding how effectively the transition to an MLTSS framework can be managed. Critics may worry about the adequacy of funding and resources for the system's implementation, particularly in terms of capacity to serve the current population in need of long-term care. Additionally, the complexity of transitioning existing services to a managed care model raises questions about oversight and accountability, as many stakeholders will be involved in the delivery of these services.