AR HB1577

Appropriates $5,000,000 to the Department of Human Services - Division of Medical Services from the General Improvement Fund for grants and aid supporting primary care case management programs.

Funds cover personal services and operating expenses for patient-focused and practice-focused primary care case management activities, expanded information technology use, and monitoring and performance reporting for "medical home" initiatives.

Permits the department to adopt new rules and regulations to carry out the intent of the General Assembly without restriction by requirements applicable to other programs.

Allows institutions and agencies to supplement state funds with grants, donations, and federal funds, provided Maintenance and General Operations funds are not used for this appropriation's purposes.

Effective July 1, 2015, with emergency declaration to ensure immediate operation and prevent irreparable harm to essential governmental programs.