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HB 1171

INS-COST SHARING/DRUG REBATES

104th Regular Session Introduced by Rita Mayfield

Act 625 streamlines Medicaid assessments for Arkansas beneficiaries with chronic conditions, enabling quicker access to services through abbreviated evaluations.

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Bill Summary · HB 1171

Summary of House Bill 1171 (Act 625)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1171, now known as Act 625, aims to modify the existing Medicaid Provider-Led Organized Care Act in Arkansas. The primary objective of this legislation is to streamline the assessment process for certain beneficiaries enrolled in risk-based provider organizations, particularly those with chronic, long-term conditions.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces significant changes to the Medicaid assessment process, including:

  • Abbreviated Independent Assessment:

    • The Department of Human Services (DHS) is mandated to implement an abbreviated independent assessment process for beneficiaries who have already been approved for services through an independent assessment.
    • This process may include a desk review, which is a less intensive evaluation method, aimed at beneficiaries with chronic, long-term conditions.

  • Federal Waiver Application:

    • The DHS is required to apply for any necessary federal waivers, Medicaid state plan amendments, or other authorizations to implement the new assessment process effectively.

Affected Parties

The legislation primarily impacts:

  • Beneficiaries: Individuals enrolled in risk-based provider organizations who have chronic, long-term conditions will benefit from a more efficient assessment process, potentially leading to quicker access to necessary services.
  • Department of Human Services: The DHS will have new responsibilities in terms of implementing the abbreviated assessment process and seeking federal approvals.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: January 16, 2025
  • Amendments: The bill underwent several amendments, including:
    • Amendment No. 1 on February 4, 2025
    • Amendment No. 2 on February 18, 2025
  • Passed: The bill passed through various legislative stages, including readings and committee approvals, before being sent to the Governor's Office.
  • Enactment: The bill was officially enacted as Act 625 on April 16, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill 1171 represents a significant step towards improving the Medicaid assessment process for vulnerable populations in Arkansas. By allowing for abbreviated assessments, the legislation aims to enhance service delivery for beneficiaries with chronic conditions, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and more efficient use of resources within the Medicaid system.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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