Reimbursement rates for healthcare providers in Louisiana have increased thanks to a new law. Louisiana Health Secretary Bruce Greenstein says that’s a win for everyone because more doctors can afford to see more Medicaid patients.
In a July 29 statement released by the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH), the agency announced it was all thanks to funding authorized by Act 306 of the 2024 Regular Legislative Session. As both Louisiana Public Radio and the independent, nonprofit Louisiana Illuminator report, Greinstein explained, “When more patients visit doctors chronic conditions are more effectively treated. Screening occurs sooner. Prevention becomes a possibility into a reality. We all want our residents to live healthier lives, and this is a step in the right direction.”
The Medicaid reimbursement fees for healthcare providers increased this fiscal year as of July 1st. Greenstein says rates increased from 73% to 85% of the applicable Medicare rate.
When you consider 1.6 million Louisiana residents, or a third of the state population, are Medicaid recipients, it’s little wonder why the program is budgeted to grow by $258.4 million per year under the change. By 2027-28, Louisiana’s Medicaid rates are supposed to equal those of Medicare.
