Louisiana Revised Statutes Tit. 40, § 2116.31. Scope; purpose; definitions

(1) “Authorized healthcare provider” means a physician, nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, or physician assistant licensed, certified, registered, or otherwise authorized to order home healthcare services consistent with state law.

(2) “Clinical record” means those documents maintained on all patients accepted for care by a home health agency. The records will be retained in accordance with existing state law.

(3) “Department” means the Louisiana Department of Health.

(4) “Home health agency” means a state-owned and -operated agency, or a subdivision of such an agency or organization, or a private nonprofit organization, or a proprietary organization which provides for the skilled home health care to the public, under the order of an authorized healthcare provider and in the place of residence of the person receiving the care, which includes at least skilled nursing and one other service listed in the minimum standards which may be physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, medical social services, home health aides, or such others as may be listed in the minimum standards.

(5) “Home health aide services” means semi-skilled assistance by qualified personnel with activities of daily living provided to the patient who requires assistance in at least two areas of functioning and monitoring of vital signs, reporting to a professional under a written plan of care, and requiring clinical note for each patient visit.

(6) “Secretary” means the secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health.

(7) “State agency” means the division of licensing and certification of the office of the secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health.