The proposed bill would update the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) statutes by instituting the Arizona hybrid procurement model as the sole framework for managed care contracting, replacing the current competitive procurement processes. This change, effective October 1, 2027, would eliminate requests for proposals or competitive sealed proposals and mandate that all contractor selection and evaluation adhere strictly to the new hybrid model, which includes performance-based selection and retention criteria, objective evaluation standards, and a four-year performance period for contractors. Additionally, AHCCCS would be required to develop a standardized performance rubric and adopt rules for performance bond requirements, ensuring transparency in evaluation methodologies. Furthermore, the bill would enhance the authority of pharmacists by allowing them to independently order tests and initiate treatments for specific conditions in patients aged twelve and older. This includes the establishment of a statewide written protocol by the state board of pharmacy, which would cover documentation, records retention, and treatment instructions. The bill also proposes the creation of an independent testing and treatment advisory committee to aid in protocol development, while ensuring that pharmacists may not independently initiate opioid treatments or conduct tests on minors without parental consent is maintained. Overall, the legislation aims to expand pharmacists' roles in patient care while upholding clinical guidelines and patient privacy.

Statutes affected:
House Engrossed Version: 32-1979.04, 32-1979.05, 32-1979.06