The bill aims to amend the definitions of "healthcare provider" in two specific areas of Arkansas law: the Patient Protection Act of 1995 and the any willing provider laws. Specifically, it introduces the inclusion of "licensed lay midwives" as a recognized category of healthcare provider. This addition is reflected in the amendments to Arkansas Code 23-99-203(d) and 23-99-802(4), where licensed lay midwives are explicitly listed as part of the definition.

By incorporating licensed lay midwives into these legal definitions, the bill seeks to enhance the recognition and regulation of midwifery services within the state's healthcare framework. This change may facilitate greater access to midwifery care for patients and ensure that licensed lay midwives are acknowledged as legitimate healthcare providers under Arkansas law.

Statutes affected:
SB 169: 23-99-203(d), 23-99-802(4)