The proposed bill, HB2520, amends the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) regulations regarding the distribution of funds to qualifying community health centers and rural health clinics. Currently, these funds are specifically allocated for the costs associated with primary care graduate medical education (GME) programs. The new bill removes this specification, allowing the funds to be used for both direct and indirect costs related to the services provided by these health centers and clinics, effective October 1, 2024.

Additionally, the bill eliminates the requirement for AHCCCS to establish a separate GME program and instead mandates that the agency distribute appropriated funds for primary care GME services directly to qualifying centers for their operational costs. This change aims to provide greater flexibility in the use of funds, potentially enhancing the ability of these centers to serve indigent or uninsured populations without the constraints of GME program requirements. There is no anticipated fiscal impact on the state General Fund from this legislation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-2907.06
House Engrossed Version: 36-2907.06
Chaptered Version: 36-2907.06