Requests the Louisiana Department of Health and its Medicaid program to update the outpatient laboratory fee schedule to reflect coverage of all related Current Procedural Terminology codes for respiratory viral panels
Impact
If enacted, HR293 would have a direct positive impact on healthcare providers and patients across Louisiana. By allowing for the reimbursement of a broader range of laboratory tests, hospitals and clinics would be better equipped to identify and treat respiratory infections promptly. This, in turn, may lead to improved health outcomes, reduced transmission of infections, and ultimately relief for the healthcare system during peak seasons for respiratory illnesses. The specified deadline for updating the fee schedule by July 1, 2024, represents an important step toward accommodating advances in medical testing.
Summary
House Resolution 293 urges the Louisiana Department of Health and its Medicaid program to update its outpatient laboratory fee schedule. The primary focus is on ensuring coverage for all related Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes specifically for respiratory viral panels. This bill stems from concerns that current reimbursement policies do not accommodate all necessary testing, which may lead to delays in diagnosing respiratory infections and complicate patient care. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the significance of timely updates to the fee schedule in light of evolving healthcare demands, particularly concerning respiratory viruses.
Sentiment
The overall sentiment around HR293 appears to be largely positive, reflecting a recognition of the necessity for improved healthcare services amid ongoing public health challenges. Legislators seem unified in the belief that enhancing laboratory testing capabilities is essential for effective healthcare delivery. There have been no recorded oppositions or contentious discussions in the voting history, as evidenced by the unanimous support during the House vote, indicating strong bipartisan agreement on the importance of the resolution.
Contention
While the bill does not face significant contention, there may still be discussions on how quickly the changes can be implemented and whether the Louisiana Department of Health and its Medicaid program are adequately prepared to update the fee schedule. Ultimately, the resolution aims to ensure that no barriers exist for healthcare providers in billing for these critical tests, thereby enhancing the standard of care for patients in Louisiana suffering from respiratory illnesses.
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to authorize coverage through the Medicaid program for portable oxygen concentrators, when medically necessary.
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to form a group to study alternative tools to inform reimbursement rates for outpatient behavioral health services
Urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Health to amend the state Medicaid plan to extend pregnancy coverage to individuals at or below 185% of the federal poverty level.
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to apply for a waiver from the United States Department of Heath and Human Services to allow Medicaid reimbursement for individuals, including juveniles in detention.
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to review Medicaid prior authorization criteria for L-glutamine which is used to treat acute complications caused by sickle cell disease
Urges and requests the Louisiana Department of Health to assist in the development of a public service campaign to foster awareness and education on perinatal mental health care.
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to study and promulgate additional rules for single broker NEMT services relative to compliance and oversight
Requests the Louisiana Department of Health to update the Medicaid outpatient laboratory fee schedule to cover all CPT codes related to respiratory viral panels.
Creates the "Utility Line Worker", the "Louisiana Soccer Association", and the Louisiana Respiratory Therapist "RT STRONG" special prestige license plates