SB169
To Amend The Definition Of "healthcare Provider" Under The Patient Protection Act Of 1995; And To Modify The Definition Of "healthcare Provider" As Used Under The Any Willing Provider Laws.
Last Action (May 1, 2023): Sine Die adjournment
Sponsors
AI-Generated Summary
Senate Bill 169 amends the Arkansas Patient Protection Act of 1995 and the state's 'any willing provider' laws. The bill's primary action is to add 'licensed lay midwives' to the legal definition of a 'healthcare provider' within these statutes. By including licensed lay midwives in these definitions, the bill ensures these practitioners are recognized under existing healthcare regulations that govern provider-patient protections and network access requirements. This change effectively expands the scope of practitioners who qualify for participation rights under Arkansas's any willing provider framework. The legislation aims to formalize the status of these midwives within the context of state healthcare law.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries are licensed lay midwives in Arkansas, as the bill provides them with greater legal standing and access to participate in healthcare provider networks. Additionally, patients who prefer the services of licensed lay midwives may benefit from increased integration of these practitioners into the broader healthcare system, potentially improving insurance network coverage or contractual acceptance for their services.
Who Might Suffer?
Insurance companies and health maintenance organizations may be negatively impacted as the bill requires them to recognize licensed lay midwives as healthcare providers, potentially increasing the complexity of their provider networks and billing administration. Other medical providers, such as certified nurse-midwives or obstetricians, might perceive a competitive impact if the inclusion of licensed lay midwives shifts patient volume or insurance contracting preferences within the healthcare marketplace.
Get Notified
Receive an email when this bill's status changes.