This bill proposes to amend current statutes by adding a new section to Title 36, Chapter 4, Article 1 of the Arizona Revised Statutes. Specifically, it would insert provisions that prohibit the Department of Health Services (DHS) from accepting or investigating anonymous complaints against health care institutions unless the complaint is made by either the subject of the allegation or a witness to the alleged conduct.

The current law, as it stands, does not specify restrictions on anonymous complaints, allowing DHS to accept and investigate them without limitation. The proposed changes would thus tighten the criteria for complaints that DHS can act upon, ensuring that only those with direct involvement or knowledge of the situation can initiate an investigation. This change aims to enhance the integrity of the complaint process within health care institutions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-420.06
Senate Engrossed Version: 36-420.06