The bill enacts R.S. 40:2009.10.2, establishing a statewide quality oversight initiative for nursing facilities under the Louisiana Department of Health. The initiative aims to enhance the performance of nursing facilities by identifying gaps in care, deploying targeted incentives, and aligning interventions with quality risks. It sets a short-term goal of stabilizing facility performance and a long-term goal of creating a robust oversight system that fosters continuous improvement. The Department will collaborate with stakeholders, including trade and advocacy associations, to develop a coordinated approach that emphasizes collaboration, education, and practical tools.
Additionally, the Department of Health will develop internal subject-matter experts to support the initiative, utilizing various methods such as data dashboards, satisfaction surveys, and staff training plans. The Department is required to submit an initial report on the initiative's status to the Senate and House committees on health and welfare by January 1, 2028, with subsequent annual reports thereafter.