Senate Resolution No. by Senator Talbot calls for the establishment of a task force by the Department of Insurance, in collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Health, to explore the feasibility of creating an independent review board. This board would assist cancer patients and healthcare providers in navigating prior authorization processes that may not align with the recently enacted Cancer Patient's Right to Prompt Coverage Act. The resolution highlights the critical need for timely access to cancer treatments, as delays caused by prior authorization can lead to worsened health outcomes for patients.
The task force will consist of various stakeholders, including representatives from the insurance and healthcare sectors, as well as patient advocates. Its responsibilities will include reviewing current prior authorization procedures, evaluating best practices from other states, and making recommendations for improving the process in Louisiana. The task force is required to submit a report of its findings and recommendations by December 31, 2025, after which it will be dissolved. The resolution emphasizes the importance of ensuring that cancer patients receive prompt and necessary care while maintaining transparency and confidentiality in its operations.