The bill aims to modify the informal dispute resolution process for long-term care facilities in Arkansas. Key changes include the requirement for the Department of Human Services to present detailed initial arguments at hearings, rather than just a recitation of deficiencies. The impartial decision maker will have the authority to determine the appropriate time for presentations and rebuttals, and may grant additional time for good cause. The bill also allows for the participation of various medical professionals and consultants on behalf of the long-term care facility, and introduces the option for parties to be represented by an attorney.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the impartial decision maker issue a written statement of findings within seven days after the hearing, which will include details on deficiency tag numbers and the status of disputed deficiencies. The Office of Long-Term Care is required to review these findings and issue a state survey agency determination within the same timeframe, which will clarify whether the findings are accepted, rejected, or modified. The bill also emphasizes the importance of compiling quarterly reports on the outcomes of informal dispute resolutions to identify patterns and evaluate training processes for employees.