AZ SB1297

Requires the Department of Health Services, Department of Child Safety, and Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System Administration to prepare a biennial report (by August 31 of odd-numbered years) comparing psychotropic medication prescription rates between foster children and non-foster enrolled children.

Report must include the number of children receiving psychotropic medications broken down by age group, medication type, number of prescriptions, and children on multiple drugs (one through five or more medications).

Report must identify psychiatrists and physicians prescribing these medications to foster children, including those submitting Medicaid claims, and list those with the highest prescription volumes for antipsychotics, antidepressants, psychostimulants, mood stabilizers, and anti-anxiety drugs.

Report must summarize compliance with informed consent requirements for foster children and document annual costs of psychotropic medications to children under state care.

Report must be submitted to House and Senate committee chairpersons overseeing children and family affairs and health and human services, with a copy provided to the Secretary of State.