If enacted, this bill would amend current statutes by adding a new section to Title 36 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, specifically section 36-407.04. The bill mandates that hospitals accepting payments from the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) must include a section on patient admission forms for individuals to indicate their citizenship status, explicitly stating that this information will not affect their care or be reported to immigration authorities. Additionally, hospitals would be required to submit quarterly reports detailing the number of admissions or emergency visits categorized by citizenship status.

Furthermore, the bill requires the Department of Health Services (DHS) to compile and submit an annual report to state leadership, summarizing the admissions data and providing insights into the costs associated with uncompensated care for individuals not lawfully present in the U.S. The DHS would also have the authority to establish rules regarding the reporting format and the manner in which hospitals collect immigration status information, ensuring that no personal identifying information is disclosed. Overall, these updates aim to enhance transparency and data collection regarding patient immigration status in healthcare settings.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-407.04