A special event recognizing Louisiana legislators who support those with disabilities will be held Thursday.
Holy Angels will show their appreciation to Louisiana lawmakers for their commitment to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities at their gym, 10450 Ellerbe Rd., Shreveport, March 21 at 1 p.m.
Holy Angels residents, participants, families and staff of providers, Arc of Acadiana, and Evergreen will all applaud state legislators who commit to supporting rate adjustments in HB1, The General Appropriations Bill.
“Parents and families of individuals with disabilities depend on Medicaid for services. Some Louisiana State Legislators are working to help organizations that serve those with intellectual and developmental disabilities receive the reimbursement they need to remain in business. This event is an opportunity for us to say ‘Thank You,’ to them directly and publicly,” Kristen Powers, director of development for Holy Angels, said in a press release.
The state began reducing reimbursement rates in February 2009. Every year since then, providers have appealed to the Louisiana Department of Health, particularly the Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities and the Office of Management and Finance as well as the Louisiana Legislature, to provide funds to address the needs of those served.
Each State Legislator who commits to supporting rate adjustments in HB1, the General Appropriations Bill will receive a “Top Advocate Award.”
“Those legislators who make individuals with disabilities a top priority will receive appreciation because service organizations can count on them to stand in support of our most vulnerable citizens. Medicaid was originally designed to help those who cannot help themselves, and those without a voice must be our focus,” the release said.