If enacted, this bill would amend current statutes related to the Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS) by updating the preadmission screening instrument used to assess applicants for institutional services. The current law requires the screening to evaluate functional, medical, nursing, social, and developmental needs. The new provisions would specifically require the instrument to also assess cognitive needs concerning prompting, monitoring, and supervising activities of daily living for elderly applicants and adults with physical disabilities. Additionally, it would mandate that cognitive impairment and physical impairment be weighed equally if they result in a similar level of functional disability.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) must update the preadmission screening instrument and staff training manuals to reflect these changes, subject to available funding. The effective date for these updates would be July 1, 2027. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the assessment process for individuals seeking long-term care services by incorporating a more comprehensive evaluation of cognitive needs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-2936
House Engrossed Version: 36-2936