The bill amends Chapter 94, Title 67 of the Idaho Code by adding a new section, 67-9417, which establishes practice authority protection for licensed or registered health care providers. It stipulates that the Department of Health and Welfare cannot prohibit these providers from delivering services covered by the state Medicaid program, provided they operate within their authorized practice. However, exceptions apply if state law or regulation specifically excludes a type of health care provider from serving Medicaid beneficiaries, or if the provider does not have a written agreement with the Medicaid program.
Additionally, the bill declares an emergency, indicating that it will take effect on July 1, 2025. This legislation aims to ensure that health care providers can offer necessary services to Medicaid beneficiaries without undue restrictions from the state department, thereby enhancing access to care for individuals reliant on Medicaid services.