Bill > HB1028

This bill mandates that the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH), the state agency responsible for administering Medicaid, establish a new reimbursement rate methodology for nonemergency medical transportation (NEMT) services, which are services that transport Medicaid beneficiaries to and from medical appointments when they are not in an emergency situation. Specifically, the LDH must set a minimum reimbursement rate of $14.50 per trip and $2.10 per mile for these services, including those using wheelchair-accessible vehicles. The bill also requires the LDH to develop a rate methodology for NEMT trips involving multiple passengers, taking into account the number of people being transported. Furthermore, it places a restriction on NEMT services, preventing individuals from being transported to Medicaid-covered services outside their home parish or adjacent parishes unless a medical necessity is determined by the Medicaid managed care organization or the LDH. The bill's implementation is contingent upon a specific legislative appropriation of funds.