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Bill Summary · SB 309 
# Summary of Senate Bill 309 (SB 309)

## Purpose and Intent
Senate Bill 309 (SB 309) aims to amend the Arkansas Health Care Consumer Act by revising the definition of the "psychiatric collaborative care model." The bill seeks to enhance the integration of clinical psychiatric pharmacist services within this model, thereby improving the delivery of mental health care in Arkansas.

## Key Provisions
- **Revised Definition**: The bill updates the definition of the "psychiatric collaborative care model" to align with current federal guidelines and standards as of January 1, 2025.
- **Inclusion of Psychiatric Pharmacists**: 
  - The bill allows for the inclusion of clinical psychiatric pharmacists in primary care teams. 
  - To qualify, these pharmacists must:
    - Hold a pharmacy degree from an accredited program.
    - Utilize a disease state management protocol or provide independent consulting services.
    - Maintain a valid pharmacist license with the Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy.
  - Additionally, pharmacists may hold national board certification.

## Impact
- **Healthcare Providers**: The bill will directly affect primary care providers and psychiatric pharmacists by formalizing their roles in collaborative care settings.
- **Patients**: By integrating psychiatric pharmacists into care teams, patients may benefit from enhanced access to mental health services and improved medication management.
- **Healthcare System**: This legislative change aims to create a more cohesive and effective approach to mental health care, potentially leading to better health outcomes for individuals requiring psychiatric services.

## Legislative Timeline
- **Introduced**: February 26, 2025
- **Key Actions**:
  - March 6, 2025: Returned by the Committee with a recommendation to pass.
  - March 11, 2025: Passed the Senate and transmitted to the House.
  - March 19, 2025: Withdrawn by the author and returned to the Senate as requested.
- **Adjournment**: The session adjourned sine die on May 5, 2025.

## Conclusion
SB 309 represents a significant step towards enhancing mental health care delivery in Arkansas by integrating psychiatric pharmacists into collaborative care models. This legislative effort reflects a commitment to improving patient care through interdisciplinary approaches in the healthcare system.

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

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