AR SB257

Extends the appeal period for Medicaid providers from 35 days to 65 days to challenge adverse decisions through administrative reconsideration or appeal processes

Requires all notices of adverse decisions to include a clear and detailed explanation of the rationale plus citations to all specific protocols, procedures, or policy manual references relied upon

Mandates the Department of Human Services publish and maintain on its website all protocols, procedures, and requirements used in making adverse decisions, including current versions, archived prior versions, and effective dates

Prohibits DHS from using or enforcing any policy, protocol, or requirement that is not publicly disclosed and accessible to providers; undisclosed policies are deemed invalid for adverse decisions

Applies all requirements to third-party vendors contracted to administer Medicaid appeals and requires DHS to conduct periodic compliance audits with annual publication of findings