§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.

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