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Louisiana closes UnitedHealthcare contract, reassigns Medicaid members

The Louisiana Department of Health announced closure of its contract with UnitedHealthcare, completing the reassignment of approximately 280,000 Medicaid members to other participating managed care organizations. Over 36,000 members selected new plans during the Special Enrollment Period from January 15 to February 15, with remaining members auto-assigned using an algorithm that prioritized family unity and provider continuity. Receiving MCOs are required to honor all existing care authorizations for 60 days following the transition.

Fee-for-Service Claims Processing Correction Notice

The Louisiana Department of Health issued a notice regarding a system error by Gainwell Technologies affecting fee-for-service claims processed on November 4 and December 9, 2025. Due to a ClaimsXten editing system failure, certain professional, outpatient hospital, and DME claims were paid without proper NCCI edits. LDH will void and reprocess affected claims beginning March 31, 2026.

LDH Reports Seafood Sampling Results from Oil Spill Area

The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) has reported initial seafood sampling results from an area affected by an oil leak. Samples of oysters, shrimp, finfish, and crab from Basin 12 showed clear results for petroleum contamination. The LDH previously closed Basin 12 to oyster harvesting as a precautionary measure.

Louisiana Department of Health Mourns Passing of Former Medicaid Director Ruth Kennedy

The Louisiana Department of Health announced the passing of former Medicaid Director Ruth Kennedy on March 20, 2026. Kennedy served over 40 years in public service, significantly expanding health care access and transforming the state's Medicaid program.

OPH Engineering Services Launches Public Records Portal

The Louisiana Department of Health's Office of Public Health's Bureau of Engineering Services has launched a new online portal, RIMS, for public access to engineering records. This portal aims to improve transparency and customer service by allowing direct access to inspection reports, sample results, and permitting documents.

Legislative Oversight Committee Reports Submitted

The Louisiana Department of Health has submitted the March 2026 Legislative Oversight Committee reports. These reports were filed in accordance with state statute R.S. 49:968(D)(1)(b)(c).

Medicaid Member Plan Changes

Louisiana Medicaid has updated its policy regarding member plan changes. Effective March 1, 2026, members can switch health or dental plans at any time, with a limit of two changes per calendar year. This change aims to provide greater flexibility for Medicaid beneficiaries in selecting their healthcare coverage.

Louisiana SNAP Waiver Restricts Sugary Drinks and Candy

The Louisiana Department of Health has implemented a SNAP waiver, effective February 18, 2026, that removes sugary drinks and candy from the list of eligible purchases. This waiver, approved by the USDA, aims to promote healthier food choices among SNAP beneficiaries and reduce diet-related health issues.

LDH Launches Project M.O.M. Catalyst Sites for Mothers

The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) has launched Project M.O.M. (Maternal Overdose Mortality), establishing 11 "catalyst site" hospitals. This initiative aims to improve health outcomes for mothers affected by substance use disorder and their babies by enhancing care coordination and access to treatment.