This bill establishes licensure for Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care Centers (PPECCs) under the Arkansas Department of Health, introducing a new subchapter in the Arkansas Code that outlines definitions, licensing requirements, application processes, and operational standards for these centers. It mandates that no entity may operate a PPECC without a license, which requires an application, financial viability documentation, and compliance with local zoning laws. The bill emphasizes the need for a physician's prescription and parental consent for admitting minors, ensuring that care is provided in a regulated environment.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the Arkansas Medicaid Program to reimburse PPECCs for services rendered and establishes criteria for the denial, suspension, or revocation of licenses based on rule violations. Key insertions focus on enhancing care quality and safety, including requirements for medical, developmental, and family training services, adherence to health and safety standards, and maintaining sanitary conditions. It also limits attendance to no more than twelve hours within a twenty-four-hour period for children, ensuring that services are specifically tailored for medically or technologically dependent children. The Department of Human Services is tasked with applying for necessary federal waivers to implement these changes effectively, aiming to improve care standards for children requiring specialized medical attention.