Louisiana House Bill HB181

Louisiana 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/24/23
• Refer: 3/24/23
• Refer: 4/10/23
• Report Pass: 4/20/23
• Engrossed: 5/17/23
• Refer: 5/18/23
• Report Pass: 5/24/23
• Enrolled: 6/7/23
• Chaptered: 6/14/23
• Passed: 6/14/23

Caption

Provides relative to telemedicine access for coroners

Impact

The legislation is expected to modernize the state’s approach to mental health emergencies by integrating telemedicine into the evaluation process. This change aims to ensure that individuals in crisis can receive timely assessments without the delays that can occur with traditional in-person visits. The potential impact is significant because it allows for quicker intervention in mental health crises, potentially minimizing risks and providing necessary support sooner.

Summary

House Bill 181 addresses amendments to the roles and responsibilities of coroners in Louisiana regarding telemedicine examinations. The bill clarifies the process by which coroners may conduct emergency mental health examinations and outlines the use of telehealth technologies in these situations. By allowing coroners or their deputies, who are physicians, to use telehealth for initial examinations, the bill seeks to streamline the process and make mental health evaluations more accessible, especially in emergency situations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 181 appears largely positive among stakeholders advocating for mental health reform and improved access to emergency services. Supporters emphasize the benefits of making mental health evaluations more efficient and accessible through telehealth avenues. However, there may also be concerns regarding the adequacy of care provided through telehealth compared to in-person evaluations, highlighting a balance between accessibility and quality of care.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the use of telemedicine for mental health assessments, particularly regarding the thoroughness and personal interaction involved in such evaluations. Critics might argue that reliance on telehealth could detract from the quality of care or lead to inadequate assessments in complex cases. Ensuring that patients receive the appropriate level of care, whether through telehealth or in-person visits, remains a critical discussion point as this bill moves forward.