The proposed bill aims to amend the Arkansas Medicaid Program to include reimbursement for physical therapy services provided in clinic-based settings. Currently, the program only covers physical therapy in hospital-based settings. The bill highlights the benefits of expanding coverage, noting that access to rehabilitative physical therapy in clinics can lead to lower overall healthcare costs, a decrease in the need for surgical interventions, and a reduction in long-term opioid use.

To implement this change, the bill mandates that the Arkansas Medicaid Program reimburse for physical therapy in clinic-based settings and requires the Department of Human Services to seek any necessary federal waivers or amendments to the Medicaid state plan. This initiative is expected to enhance patient care and promote cost-effective treatment options within the state's healthcare system.