everything you want to know (and don't) about arkansas politics

Republican Sponsorship
Healthcare

SB92

To Set The Reimbursement Rate For Orthotics And Prosthetics Within The Arkansas Medicaid Program.

Introduced

Last Action (Jan. 23, 2023): Sine Die adjournment

Sponsors

AI-Generated Summary

Senate Bill 92 seeks to establish a standardized reimbursement rate for orthotic and prosthetic devices provided through the Arkansas Medicaid program. The legislation mandates that the reimbursement rate for these medical devices must be set at ninety percent (90%) of the current Medicare reimbursement rate. Additionally, the bill instructs the Arkansas Department of Human Services to pursue any necessary federal waivers, state plan amendments, or other regulatory authorities required to implement and operationalize this payment standard.

Potential Impact Analysis

Who Might Benefit?

The primary beneficiaries include providers and suppliers of orthotic and prosthetic devices, who would have a fixed and predictable reimbursement benchmark. Additionally, Medicaid recipients who require these devices may benefit if the standardized rate increases provider participation or improves access to the necessary medical equipment.

Who Might Suffer?

The primary entity negatively impacted is the Arkansas state budget, as setting reimbursement rates at ninety percent of Medicare may increase costs for the state Medicaid program compared to previous reimbursement methodologies. Taxpayers could potentially bear the burden of these increased state expenditures.

Read Full Bill on arkleg.state.ar.us