AR SB672

Amends Arkansas Code § 23-79-115(a) to require insurers to provide equal payment or reimbursement for healthcare services when provided by outpatient surgery centers licensed under §§ 20-9-214 and 20-9-215 compared to hospital services.

Applies to insurance policies and contracts delivered or issued in Arkansas more than 120 days after July 6, 1977, including network participation agreements and agreements between insurers and healthcare providers.

Permits insurers to consider the Patient Protection Act of 1995 and willing provider laws when setting rates, but prohibits setting rates below 90% of the average payment or reimbursement by insurance companies using Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes for hospital outpatient services in the same state.

Declares an emergency clause, finding that ambulatory surgery centers do not receive fair market pay and that clarification of reimbursement policy is urgently needed to ensure patients have access to quality care at fair market value.

Becomes effective upon the Governor's approval, expiration of the Governor's veto period without action, or override of a gubernatorial veto.