MedicaidPrior AuthMedium impact
Expedited Prior Authorization (PA) Submission
Arkansas Medicaid·AR·Prior Authorization
Effective date
Jul 28, 2026
We identified it
Jul 28, 2026
Summary
Arkansas Medicaid is expanding its Provider Portal to allow electronic submission of expedited prior authorization requests for new (initial) prior authorization submissions, effective July 28, 2026. Providers must now complete and upload the DMS-9981 Attestation Form when requesting expedited review and must document that the delay would jeopardize the member's life, health, function, or cause severe pain.
Action Required
By July 28, 2026: Billing and provider teams must train on the new expedited PA submission process in the Arkansas Medicaid Provider Portal. Update internal protocols to require completion and upload of the DMS-9981 Attestation Form (https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/DMS-9981.pdf) when submitting expedited initial PA requests. Instruct providers to select the 'Expedite PA' checkbox during PA submission and ensure clinical documentation supporting medical necessity for expedited review is attached. Update encounter templates or workflow reminders to clarify when expedited review is appropriate (life/health jeopardy, severe pain only). Note that the submit button will be disabled if the attestation form is not uploaded, so staff must verify form completion before submission. For questions, contact the Provider Assistance Center at (800) 457-4454 toll-free or (501) 376-2211.