AR HB1284

Authorizes the Arkansas Medicaid Program to recognize advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) licensed by the Arkansas State Board of Nursing as primary care providers with all duties equivalent to primary care physicians and case managers

Permits APRNs to serve as initial healthcare providers in federal payment models, perform initial diagnosis, act as team leaders for medical homes, maintain medical records, order laboratory tests, provide preventive care, and refer patients to specialists

Requires the program to reimburse APRNs at not less than current rates for services within their scope of practice, and at 100% of physician reimbursement rates for out-of-pocket costs such as laboratory tests and x-rays

Extends recognition and reimbursement requirements to healthcare insurance policies where premiums are paid directly or indirectly by the Medicaid Program

Clarifies that this section does not expand the scope of practice or licensure of APRNs beyond what the Arkansas State Board of Nursing determines