AR HB1583

Requires health benefit plans in Arkansas to cover medically necessary treatment for acquired brain injuries starting January 1, 2026, including cognitive rehabilitation therapy, neurobehavioral therapy, community reintegration services, and post-acute care residential treatment

Prohibits lifetime limitations or unreasonable annual limitations on the number of days or sessions for covered brain injury treatments, and bars higher deductibles, copayments, or out-of-pocket costs than other plan benefits

Defines acquired brain injury as any brain injury occurring after birth caused by infectious disease, stroke, traumatic injury, brain tumor, diminished oxygen, toxins, or metabolic/endocrine disorders

Requires only clinical peer reviewers with specialized experience in acquired brain injury treatment to conduct preauthorization or utilization review for covered services

Directs the Department of Human Services to apply for a Medicaid waiver to provide home and community-based services for this population, and authorizes the Insurance Commissioner to create expedited appeal processes for coverage denials