The bill modifies the informal dispute resolution process for long-term care facilities in Arkansas by amending existing statutes. Key changes include the requirement for the Department of Human Services to present detailed initial arguments at hearings, rather than just a summary 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 clarify the participation of various stakeholders in the hearings, including employees of the long-term care facility and medical providers. The bill also introduces a quarterly reporting requirement for the Department of Human Services to track the outcomes of informal dispute resolutions, including patterns of deficiencies and employee performance evaluations. Notably, the bill specifies that certain matters, such as scope and severity assessments or remedies imposed, are not subject to informal dispute resolution, ensuring that the process remains focused on deficiencies cited in the statement of deficiencies.