SB86

Senate Bill 86 mandates that the Arkansas Department of Health conduct a comprehensive study on the practice of naturopathic medicine within the state and examine how other states regulate naturopathic physicians. The study requires an analysis of current practitioners in Arkansas, including their credentials and distribution, as well as a multi-state survey comparing recognition, licensing, regulatory structures, and insurance reimbursement policies. The Department of Health is required to complete this study and submit a final report to the Governor, state legislative leadership, relevant legislative committees, and the Arkansas State Medical Board by June 30, 2024. Furthermore, the findings must be made available to the public on the department's official website. The bill focuses exclusively on data collection and reporting, without establishing new licensing standards or substantive policy changes at this time.