The Louisiana Department of Health has announced that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has formally approved Louisiana’s 1115 Reentry Demonstration, authorizing the state to receive Federal Financial Participation for providing Medicaid pre‑release services to eligible incarcerated individuals.
Louisiana is one of three states receiving new demonstration approvals, alongside Minnesota and Nevada, as part of CMS’s national initiative to strengthen continuity of care for individuals returning to their communities. The waiver positions Louisiana to join 18 other states implementing CMS-approved reentry demonstrations.
Louisiana’s demonstration will allow both Medicaid-required and state-defined coverage for specific services during the 60 days prior to release, removing gaps in care created by the existing inmate exclusion.
“Our goal from the beginning has been to build a system that helps keep Louisianians safe while using taxpayer dollars more efficiently and effectively,” said LDH Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein.
“By beginning care before release and connecting people with providers in their communities, we can improve health outcomes and build a more effective, sustainable system of care.”
LDH is preparing to launch the demonstration at Elayn Hunt Correctional Center in early 2027, followed by the remaining state prisons and participating parish jails.
“Approval of this waiver will strengthen public safety by creating a smoother transition from incarceration to critical community-based services, including mental health and substance use disorder treatment,” said Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections Secretary Gary Westcott.
Individuals eligible under the waiver will receive medically necessary, Medicaid‑covered services during the 60 days before release, including:
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and substance use disorder counseling
- A 30‑day supply of prescription medications upon release
- Behavioral health assessments and treatment
- Laboratory and diagnostic services
- Durable Medical Equipment (DME)
A core goal of the demonstration is improving coordination between correctional and community providers. Case managers will support participants through pre-release services, scheduling post-release appointments, and facilitating warm handoffs to community care teams.
CMS’s approval underscores national priorities to expand treatment and recovery support for substance use disorders, improve mental health outcomes, and enhance chronic disease management for justice-involved individuals.