The proposed bill aims to establish restrictions on pharmacy contracting and conflicts of interest while promoting pharmaceutical patient freedom of choice in Arkansas. It introduces a new section to the Arkansas Code that outlines the responsibilities of pharmacy permit holders and prohibits parent entities, such as hospitals and health centers, from financially incentivizing patients to choose specific pharmacies or limiting their freedom of choice through financial means. The bill mandates that any complaints regarding violations be investigated by the board within 30 business days and establishes that repeated violations will be considered a breach of the Unfair Practices Act.

Additionally, the bill creates a new subchapter dedicated to pharmaceutical patient freedom of choice, ensuring that patients or their responsible parties can select their preferred pharmacy or treatment plan. It requires that patients be fully informed of their options and prohibits permit holders from engaging in agreements that undermine the traditional relationships between physicians, patients, and pharmacists. The bill also stipulates that documentation of a patient's pharmacy choice must be maintained in their medical records, and patients are allowed to change their pharmacy provider at any time. The board will review compliance with these provisions during inspections.