Arkansas Code Title 23. Public Utilities and Regulated Industries § 23-99-1128. Prescription drugs, medicines, biological products, pharmaceuticals, or pharmaceutical services

(a)(1) Beginning on January 1, 2024, a healthcare insurer or pharmacy benefits manager shall submit a written request to the Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy for any prescription drug, medicine, biological product, pharmaceutical, or pharmaceutical service to be reviewed for a continuation of prior authorization by a specified health benefit plan whether or not a healthcare provider has met the criteria for an exemption from prior authorization under §§ 23-99-1120--23-99-1126.

(2) The request under subdivision (a)(1) of this section shall state the reason the request is being made for each prescription drug, medicine, biological product, pharmaceutical, or pharmaceutical service for the specified health benefit plan.

(c)(1) The Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy and the Arkansas State Medical Board, jointly, may determine whether or not a prescription drug, medicine, biological product, pharmaceutical, or pharmaceutical service may be subject to prior authorization by a health benefit plan under the criteria and procedures under subsection (b) of this section.

(2) The Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy shall promptly notify the entity that made the request of the joint decision made by the Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy and the Arkansas State Medical Board.