HB1012
To Require The Arkansas Medicaid Program To Extend Eligibility To Certain Individuals For Family Planning Services.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill proposes the establishment of a "Family Planning Only Program" within the Arkansas Medicaid Program. The program would be designed to offer family planning services to specific individuals. Eligibility for this program is defined by two criteria. Firstly, individuals must not be eligible for any other existing category within the Arkansas Medicaid Program. Secondly, their income must not exceed two hundred percent (200%) of the federal poverty level as of January 1, 2025. The Department of Human Services is tasked with seeking any necessary federal waivers, state plan amendments, or other authorizations to put this program into effect. The stated purpose is to extend eligibility for these particular services.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
Individuals who are not currently eligible for the Arkansas Medicaid Program but have incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty level and are seeking family planning services would be the primary beneficiaries. This includes those who may not qualify for full Medicaid coverage but require access to contraceptive services, counseling, and related health screenings. Healthcare providers offering family planning services would also benefit from an expanded patient base.
Who Might Suffer?
This bill does not appear to identify any specific groups or entities that would be directly and negatively impacted. The program is designed to expand services to a currently underserved population. Potential indirect impacts could involve administrative adjustments for the Department of Human Services or potential shifts in resource allocation within the broader healthcare system, but these are not direct negative consequences for identifiable groups as described by the bill's text.