A. The department shall create the Health Data Panel. The purpose of the Health Data Panel shall be to make recommendations to the secretary for the implementation of the requirements of this Subpart.

            B. Members of the Health Data Panel shall be appointed by the secretary and shall represent all interests involved in the collection and publication of provider- and health-plan specific cost, quality, and performance data elements. Members shall include but not be limited to purchasers of health care, hospitals and other service providers, consumer and patient advocacy groups, quality improvement and health information technology groups, physicians, and any other individuals or groups as deemed necessary by the secretary.

            C. The Health Data Panel shall consider the provisions set forth in La. Rev. Stat. 40:1173.3.

            D. The secretary or his designee shall serve as the chairman of the meetings of the Health Data Panel. The secretary shall convene meetings of the Health Data Panel on an annual basis and as needed to fulfill the provisions of this Subpart. The secretary may use the recommendations of the Health Data Panel to fulfill the responsibilities of the department as set forth in this Subpart.

            E. Members of the Health Data Panel shall serve without compensation.

            Acts 2008, No. 537, §1, eff. June 30, 2008; Acts 2014, No. 790, §1; Redesignated from La. Rev. Stat. 40:1300.114 by HCR 84 of 2015 R.S.; Acts 2018, No. 206, §4.