This bill establishes new provisions under the Arkansas Medicaid Program regarding the administration of immunizations and monoclonal antibodies for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) disease. It introduces a new section in Arkansas Code Title 20, Chapter 77, which mandates that the Arkansas Medicaid Program reimburse an administration fee equal to 100% of the maximum fee set by the Vaccines for Children Program for administering these treatments to infants and toddlers. Additionally, it clarifies that hospitals are not required to provide new services related to these immunizations and that the Department of Human Services must seek any necessary federal waivers or amendments to implement these changes.
Furthermore, the bill adds a section to Arkansas Code Title 16, Chapter 114, which provides civil immunity to individuals and entities involved in the administration of RSV immunizations or monoclonal antibodies, protecting them from liability as long as their actions are not grossly negligent or reckless. This immunity aims to encourage healthcare providers to administer these critical treatments without fear of legal repercussions, thereby enhancing public health efforts against RSV in young children.