SB611 - Arkansas Peer Review Fairness Act Amendments

• Amends Arkansas Code §§ 20-9-1302 through 20-9-1304 to clarify that peer review investigations begin when a physician is formally informed in writing within five (5) business days of becoming subject to an investigation.

• Establishes standards for external reviews during investigations, requiring physicians on the review body to select external reviewers and ensuring the physician under review is included on substantive communications with external reviewers.

• Requires hearing officers and arbitrators to be independent with no conflicts of interest, and prohibits those who served as attorneys for either party within two (2) years prior to the hearing or are affiliated with firms that represented either party.

• Adds provisions ensuring physicians have rights to legal representation, access to evidence, opportunity to present witnesses, and receive written decisions with stated bases; prohibits retaliation against physicians exercising unbiased judgment in peer review.

• Creates a new remedy allowing physicians to petition circuit court within 60 days of an adverse decision to remedy violations, with court review limited to the record and potential recovery of reasonable attorney's fees if physician prevails; declares Section 7 effective immediately as an emergency measure.