The bill amends the annual cap for diagnostic laboratory services within the Arkansas Medicaid Program, specifically adjusting the reimbursement limits. The new language establishes that the annual cap for diagnostic laboratory services will be set at a minimum of $500, with an increased cap of $1,800 for beneficiaries diagnosed with chronic pain or undergoing pain management. Additionally, the cap for radiology services remains at $500. The Department of Human Services is tasked with promulgating the necessary rules to implement these changes, with a deadline for filing the final rules set for January 1, 2026, or as soon as practicable after that date if prior approval is pending.

An emergency clause is included in the bill, highlighting the urgent need to improve efficiency in diagnostic laboratory services due to inadequate monitoring linked to the low reimbursement cap. This inadequacy is noted to contribute to issues such as the opioid epidemic and increased emergency room visits. The act is deemed necessary for the health and safety of Arkansas Medicaid beneficiaries and is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.