If enacted, this bill would amend current statutes by adding a new section to title 36, chapter 4, article 1 of the Arizona Revised Statutes. Specifically, it would require hospitals that accept payment from the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) to include a section on patient admission forms where patients or their representatives can indicate their citizenship status, specifying whether they are a U.S. citizen, lawfully present, or not lawfully present in the United States. The form must also clarify that the patient's response will not affect their care or be reported to immigration authorities.

Additionally, the bill mandates that hospitals submit quarterly reports to the Department of Health Services (DHS) detailing the number of admissions or emergency visits categorized by citizenship status. Furthermore, DHS is required to compile an annual report for the Governor and legislative leaders, summarizing the admissions data and providing insights into the costs associated with uncompensated care for individuals not lawfully present. The bill also allows DHS to establish rules regarding the reporting format while ensuring that no personal identifying information of patients is disclosed.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-407.04
Senate Engrossed Version: 36-407.04