The resolution urges the Louisiana Department of Health to create a professional consulting nursing service code within the New Opportunities Waiver (NOW), Residential Options Waiver (ROW), and Supports Waiver programs. It highlights the essential role that nurses play in providing care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities who receive home- and community-based services through these Medicaid waiver programs. The resolution points out that current reimbursement rates for nursing services are inadequate, which hampers healthcare providers' ability to employ nurses and deliver necessary services.

The resolution emphasizes that certain healthcare tasks can only be performed by nurses, such as initial assessments and complex medical procedures, and that nurses also provide critical training and support to direct support professionals. By developing a dedicated nursing service code, the resolution aims to improve access to nursing care for individuals with disabilities and ensure that their healthcare needs are adequately met. A copy of the resolution will be sent to the secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health for further action.