AR SB181

Repeals the Arkansas PANS/PANDAS Advisory Council (effective January 1, 2024) and eliminates the sunset provision that was set to expire December 31, 2023.

Requires health benefit plans in Arkansas to cover off-label use of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) to treat pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS) and pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infection (PANDAS), effective January 1, 2024.

For coverage before FDA approval, requires a pediatric patient's primary care physician to consult with an Arkansas licensed pediatric psychiatrist and an Arkansas licensed physician in a pediatric subspecialty (neurology, rheumatology, or infectious disease) to determine treatment necessity and establish a patient-specific treatment plan.

Coverage may be subject to standard deductibles, copayments, and prior authorization reviews, and does not reduce other plan benefits.

Declares an emergency, making the act effective immediately upon Governor approval or expiration of veto period, and requires the Insurance Commissioner to promulgate implementing rules by August 31, 2023.