MedicaidPrior AuthMedium impact
Other Medical Service PA Process Type Now Available for Carved-Out Drugs and Services
Arkansas Medicaid·AR·Provider Notice
Effective date
Mar 2, 2026
We identified it
Mar 2, 2026
Summary
Arkansas is now offering an alternative prior authorization process type for carved-out drugs and services under the 'Other Medical Service' PA category. This expands PA submission options and may simplify authorization workflows for certain services. Billing teams need to understand when to use this new process versus existing PA methods.
Action Required
By March 2, 2026: Billing team and providers must review the complete policy document (ON-005-26.docx from Arkansas Department of Human Services) to identify which carved-out drugs and services now qualify for the 'Other Medical Service' PA process. Update internal PA submission guidelines and billing system workflows to reflect the new process type option. Train staff on when to use the new PA process versus traditional methods. Determine if this applies to your patient population and payer contracts. Failure to use the correct PA process may result in denials or delays.