This bill aims to exempt providers in the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) from the licensing requirements typically mandated for home healthcare services in Arkansas. The General Assembly recognizes that while PACE providers deliver comprehensive care, including home-based services, they do not fit the traditional definition of home healthcare service providers. The intent is to clarify that these providers should not be subjected to the same licensing requirements as other home healthcare services, thereby streamlining their operations and ensuring they can continue to provide necessary care to elderly participants.

To implement this exemption, the bill amends Arkansas Code 20-10-802 by adding a new subdivision that specifically states that licensed and certified PACE providers in good standing, who are part of the Arkansas Medicaid Program and provide services as outlined in individual care plans, are exempt from the home healthcare licensing requirements. This legislative change is designed to facilitate better care delivery for elderly individuals enrolled in the PACE program while reducing regulatory burdens on the providers.

Statutes affected:
SB 180: 20-10-802