The bill modifies 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 is given the authority to determine the appropriate time for presentations and rebuttals, and parties may now be represented by attorneys. Additionally, the impartial decision maker is required to issue a written statement of findings within seven days after the hearing, and the Office of Long-Term Care must provide a state survey agency determination within the same timeframe.

Further amendments include the ability for the impartial decision maker to make written or recorded notes of the arguments presented, and the inclusion of various medical professionals as participants in the hearings. The bill also mandates that the Department of Human Services compile quarterly reports on the outcomes of informal dispute resolutions, which will help identify patterns in deficiencies and evaluate employee performance. Certain matters, such as scope and severity assessments, are explicitly excluded from being addressed during informal dispute resolution hearings.