§ 40:1262 — Health equity; duties of the Louisiana Department of Health

§1262. Health equity; duties of the Louisiana Department of Health
A. The Louisiana Department of Health, in addition to the other powers and duties
conferred upon it by law, shall serve as a foundation and resource for addressing health care
disparities for women and vulnerable populations, and contribute to the improvement of the
health of Louisiana's citizens. Specific to the improvement in the health of women in
Louisiana, the Louisiana Department of Health shall be responsible for leading,
consolidating, and coordinating efforts across the state geared toward improving women's
health outcomes through policy, education, evidence-based practices, programs, and services.
B. As part of carrying out the duties provided for in Subsection A of this Section, the
Louisiana Department of Health shall engage in all of the following activities:
(1) Complete a thorough assessment of all activities engaged in or services provided
by the department that may specifically impact the health or quality of life of women. The
department shall submit this assessment to the House Committee on Health and Welfare and
Senate Committee on Health and Welfare no later than February 15, 2022.
(2) Make available to health care professionals the best practices and protocols for
treating communities with underlying medical conditions and health disparities by doing all
of the following:
(a) Examining opportunities which provide greater access to high-quality medical
care and improve health outcomes.
(b) Performing a comprehensive evidence-based analysis of the determinants of
health equity that influence racial health disparities.
(c) Performing a comprehensive evidence-based analysis of interventions that
positively impact health equity and address disparities.
(d) Performing a comprehensive examination of the population dynamics that are
indicative of health equity and disparities.
(e) Promoting health awareness educational media campaigns.
C. To assist in carrying out its duties pursuant to this Section, the Louisiana
Department of Health may analyze any other relevant data which will add to the work of the
department, seek input from any interested parties including but not limited to licensed health
care professionals, advocates, and concerned citizens, pursue any relevant topics including
policies and laws that impact health disparities, and promote community outreach and
extension activities.

Legislative History

Acts 2021, No. 210, §1, eff. June 11, 2021.