Louisiana § RS 40:1123.5 - Prenatal screening for substance use disorder
Full text of Louisiana Louisiana Civil Code § RS 40:1123.5 — Prenatal screening for substance use disorder, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ RS 40:1123.5. Prenatal screening for substance use disorder
A. Every licensed healthcare provider who provides prenatal care to a pregnant woman shall screen her for substance use disorder during the first trimester of pregnancy or at the time of first examination after confirming pregnancy, if the provider utilizing his professional medical judgment believes that the screening would be in the best interest of the patient and such screening has not already occurred. The healthcare provider providing such screening shall utilize a validated verbal screening tool for substance use disorder that aligns with standards of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The Louisiana Department of Health, office of public health, shall post a list of approved validated verbal screening tools on its website. For purposes of this Section, "licensed healthcare provider" means a physician, advanced practice registered nurse, or physician assistant.
B. After administering the screening provided for in Subsection A of this Section, a licensed healthcare provider who determines that a pregnant woman is at risk for substance use disorder shall refer the woman for appropriate treatment.
Acts 2025, No. 437, §1, eff. June 20, 2025.
Source: official Louisiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana § RS 40:1123.5
What does Louisiana Civil Code § RS 40:1123.5 cover?
Section RS 40:1123.5 ("Prenatal screening for substance use disorder") is part of the Louisiana Civil Code, the codified statutory law of Louisiana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Louisiana § RS 40:1123.5?
A common citation format is "Louisiana Civil Code § RS 40:1123.5" (Louisiana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Louisiana law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Louisiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Louisiana attorney.
How does Louisiana § RS 40:1123.5 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Louisiana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Louisiana.