Louisiana 2021 Regular Session

Louisiana House Bill HB598

Introduced
4/2/21  
Introduced
4/2/21  
Refer
4/2/21  
Refer
4/2/21  
Refer
4/12/21  

Caption

Requires the La. Department of Health to apply for a Medicaid demonstration waiver to support and improve the delivery of inpatient mental health services (OR -$3,274,253 GF EX See Note)

Impact

If enacted, HB 598 is expected to significantly impact the delivery of mental health services across Louisiana. By permitting Medicaid reimbursement for inpatient treatments, the bill aims to address existing gaps in mental health care, especially considering that large residential mental health facilities have historically been excluded from accessing federal Medicaid funds. The proposed changes are anticipated to enhance access to necessary treatments and improve patient outcomes for those with serious mental illnesses.

Summary

House Bill 598 seeks to enhance mental health services within Louisiana by requiring the Louisiana Department of Health to apply for a Section 1115 demonstration waiver from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). This waiver would facilitate Medicaid reimbursement for inpatient treatment of serious mental illnesses in hospitals and psychiatric facilities. The bill's primary goal is to secure additional funding to improve the state's mental health care system, particularly for individuals facing severe mental health challenges.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 598 appears to be favorable among mental health advocates and healthcare providers who recognize the urgent need for improved mental health funding and support. Proponents argue that increasing access to inpatient care will not only provide better treatment options but also reduce long-term societal costs associated with untreated mental health conditions. However, some concerns might arise regarding the extent of the implementation and the potential dependency on federal funding, which could be a point of contention during discussions.

Contention

Despite the overall support for the bill, there may be discussions around the sustainability of such Medicaid funding for inpatient services and the implications of federal oversight. Critics of similar bills often highlight concerns regarding potential bureaucratic challenges or the quality of care under expanded Medicaid programs. Hence, the approach HB 598 takes in applying for a waiver could spark debates about state versus federal healthcare priorities and the responsibility of the state in managing these services effectively.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA HB790

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

LA HB435

Directs the Department of Health and Hospitals to institute cost sharing for certain Medicaid-covered services (OR -$19,006,521 GF EX See Note)

LA HB461

Requires copayments for Medicaid-covered physician visits and nonemergency services delivered in hospital emergency rooms (OR -$19,006,521 GF EX See Note)

LA HB152

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

LA HB173

Requires cost sharing for certain Medicaid-covered services and dedicates revenues derived thereof (OR GF EX See Note)

LA HR42

Requests the La. Department of Health to seek approval of a Medicaid waiver authorizing reimbursement for inpatient treatment of serious mental illness

LA HB647

Requires the La. Department of Health to implement the Medicaid health home option for persons with serious mental illness (EG INCREASE GF EX See Note)

LA HB3

Provides for a work and community engagement initiative within the Medicaid program (Item #13) (EG SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

LA HB652

Requires the Dept. of Health and Hospitals to implement an equitable system of Medicaid reimbursement among certain hospitals (OR GF EX See Note)

LA HB497

Requires the Department of Health and Hospitals to implement the Medicaid health home option for persons with serious mental illness (OR SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

Similar Bills

UT SB0257

Medicaid Accounts Amendments

UT HB0247

Child Health Care Coverage Amendments

AR SB518

To Amend The Medicaid Fraud Act And The Medicaid Fraud False Claims Act; And To Update Language And Definitions To Reflect Changes Within The Healthcare System;.

UT HB0463

Medicaid Funding Amendments

AR SB515

To Amend The Medicaid Fraud Act And The Medicaid Fraud False Claims Act.

NJ A3334

Requires Medicaid reimbursement for covered behavioral health services provided by local education agency to student who is eligible Medicaid beneficiary.

NJ S2416

Requires Medicaid reimbursement for covered behavioral health services provided by local education agency to student who is eligible Medicaid beneficiary.

NJ S3495

Provides for presumptive eligibility for home and community-based services and services provided through program of all-inclusive care for the elderly under Medicaid.