The proposed bill aims to establish minimum reimbursement levels for healthcare services in Arkansas, addressing the significant disparities faced by healthcare providers in the state. The General Assembly recognizes that Arkansas providers receive some of the lowest reimbursement rates nationally, which adversely affects their financial stability and the ability to attract qualified professionals. The bill includes legislative findings that highlight the need for an adequate healthcare system to ensure that all Arkansans have access to necessary services.

To implement these changes, the bill introduces a new subchapter in the Arkansas Code that outlines definitions, minimum reimbursement levels, and compliance requirements for healthcare insurers. Specifically, it mandates that health benefit plans reimburse healthcare providers at a minimum level, which will be phased in to reach 100% of equivalent Medicare reimbursement by January 1, 2028. The Insurance Commissioner is tasked with determining these reimbursement levels based on commercial prices relative to Medicare rates in adjoining states. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for documentation, enforcement, and the ability for the commissioner to create rules for implementation.