The bill amends existing Louisiana law regarding prenatal care by requiring healthcare providers to conduct specific blood tests for HIV and syphilis during a pregnant woman's initial prenatal visit in the first trimester and again in the third trimester. Additionally, it mandates that healthcare providers inform pregnant women about the testing, which will be performed unless the woman declines. The bill also introduces requirements for testing for chlamydia and gonorrhea during the first prenatal visit, with follow-up testing in the third trimester if necessary. Furthermore, it clarifies that all testing conducted under these provisions will be considered medically necessary and covered by health insurance without prior authorization.

In addition to the blood tests, the bill establishes a new section that requires licensed healthcare providers to screen pregnant women for substance use disorder during the first trimester or at the first examination after confirming pregnancy. This screening must utilize a validated verbal tool aligned with the standards set by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. If a provider determines that a woman is at risk for substance use disorder, they are required to refer her for appropriate treatment. The Louisiana Department of Health will maintain a list of approved screening tools on its website to assist healthcare providers.

Statutes affected:
SB174 Original:
SB174 Engrossed:
SB174 Reengrossed:
SB174 Enrolled:
SB174 Act 437: