AR HB1918

Adds Arkansas Code 20-15-206 to establish cancer patient navigation programs aimed at improving cancer patient care in the state.

Defines "patient navigation" as facilitating cancer patient care through coordination of healthcare services, provider referrals, community partnerships, clinical trial notifications, and overcoming healthcare system barriers.

Defines "health disparity population" as populations with significant disparities in cancer incidence, prevalence, morbidity, or survival rates compared to the general population.

Authorizes the Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences to establish a comprehensive cancer patient navigation program to guide patients through the healthcare system and help them overcome physical, emotional, social, and financial barriers to treatment.

Navigation services include coordinating with health insurance ombudsman programs to provide information about private insurance, healthcare savings accounts, Arkansas Medicaid, and other publicly funded programs, and conducting ongoing outreach to health disparity populations.