HB1456
To Amend The State Kidney Disease Commission To Be An Advisory Council To The Department Of Health.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill proposes to change the structure and function of the State Kidney Disease Commission in Arkansas. Primarily, it aims to transform the Commission into an Advisory Council to the Department of Health. The number of appointed members to the advisory body would be reduced from ten to seven. Appointments would be made by the Governor and confirmed by the State Board of Health, with specific qualifications outlined for physicians, hospital administrators, and public representatives. The advisory council's role would shift from direct administration to providing consultation to the Department of Health. The Department of Health, in consultation with the advisory council, would continue to administer programs for financial assistance to individuals with renal failure. The bill also clarifies the acceptance and disbursement of funds, including prior-year refunds and donations. The existing terms of the State Kidney Disease Commission members would expire upon the act's effective date, with new appointments to the advisory council to follow.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries of this bill are individuals in Arkansas suffering from acute or chronic renal failure who require kidney dialysis or transplantation. The bill aims to ensure continued or improved financial assistance for their life-saving care and treatment, particularly for those unable to afford it. Additionally, the Department of Health would benefit from the revised structure, as administrative responsibilities for kidney disease programs would be housed within their agency, supported by an advisory council. Healthcare providers and facilities involved in renal care may also indirectly benefit from a streamlined administrative process for patient assistance.
Who Might Suffer?
The most directly negatively impacted group could be the existing members of the State Kidney Disease Commission, as their terms would expire upon the bill's enactment, and they would need to reapply for positions on the new advisory council. The Arkansas Association for Kidney Diseases, a non-profit, may see its formal advisory role change in terms of how its input is sought and utilized, though the bill still mandates consultation. While the intention is to assist those with kidney disease, any potential reduction in funding or changes in eligibility criteria that might occur due to the structural shift could indirectly negatively impact future beneficiaries if not managed effectively by the Department of Health.