The proposed bill would amend current statutes by adding a new section to Title 36, Chapter 4 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, specifically focusing on health care institutions. It would require the Department of Health Services (DHS) to license and monitor health care institutions to ensure compliance with existing laws. Additionally, it mandates that DHS and the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) coordinate their monitoring and compliance functions to identify overlaps in licensing standards. The review process would include various aspects such as licensing requirements, compliance activities, data collection, and enforcement processes.

Furthermore, the bill instructs DHS and AHCCCS to seek opportunities to reduce duplicative or inconsistent requirements while ensuring patient safety and regulatory oversight. It also requires them to align their policies and practices to lessen administrative burdens on health care institutions. A significant addition is the requirement for DHS to submit a report every four years, starting December 31, 2026, summarizing the review findings, identifying overlaps, and recommending changes to improve the regulatory framework. The bill clarifies that these actions must not conflict with federal Medicaid requirements.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-405.04, 36-424.04
Senate Engrossed Version: 36-405.04