AR HB1182

Authorizes the Arkansas Medicaid Program to recognize qualified advanced practice registered nurses as primary care providers for all purposes currently authorized for primary care physicians and case managers.

Allows advanced practice registered nurses to serve as initial healthcare providers, make initial diagnoses, lead family practice teams, maintain medical records, order laboratory tests, provide preventive care, refer patients to specialists, and treat patients within their scope of practice.

Requires reimbursement at no less than the current rate for services within the nurse's scope and licensure, and 100% of physician reimbursement rates for out-of-pocket costs such as laboratory tests and x-rays.

Requires healthcare insurance policies funded by Arkansas Medicaid to recognize and reimburse advanced practice registered nurses under the same terms.

Clarifies that this section does not expand the scope or licensure of advanced practice registered nurses, with the Arkansas State Board of Nursing having final authority to interpret their scope.