House Bill No. 559 aims to enhance the organization and effectiveness of human services districts and authorities in Louisiana by establishing the Louisiana Population Health Coordinating Council (LPHCC) and the Statewide Population Health Strategy (SPHS). The bill amends existing laws to require district and authority boards to align their strategic and programmatic priorities with the SPHS, which focuses on measurable improvements in various health outcomes, including reducing preventable hospitalizations, improving maternal health access, and expanding mental health services. The bill also mandates that the boards collaborate with an executive director appointed by the surgeon general, who will oversee the implementation of these strategies.

Additionally, the bill introduces measures to reduce fraud, waste, and duplication within the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) by requiring annual reviews of human services programs, the consolidation of overlapping contracts, and the establishment of whistleblower protections. The LPHCC will consist of 17 members, including the surgeon general and various representatives from health and education sectors, and will be responsible for developing the SPHS. The bill also specifies that the council will operate without compensation for its members and will be based in Baton Rouge, with the surgeon general serving as its chairman.

Statutes affected:
HB559 Original: 28:914(D)(1)