Arkansas Administrative Code Agency 226 - Arkansas Health Insurance Marketplace
Arkansas Administrative Code – Agency 226
Arkansas Health Insurance Marketplace (AHIM)
Overview
Agency 226 governs the rules and procedures for the Arkansas Health Insurance Marketplace, which is the state’s health insurance exchange. These rules cover governance, operations, vendor interactions, and emergency procedures.
The Marketplace operates as a nonprofit public benefit corporation and is considered a political subdivision of the state. It is designed to administer marketplace health plans, coordinate with federal and state programs, and ensure public accountability.
1. Governance and Board Structure
The Marketplace is overseen by an 11-member Board of Directors.
Board members are appointed by state officials, including the Governor, the Speaker of the House, and the Senate President Pro Tempore.
Board composition includes representatives from:
Insurance industry
Healthcare professions
Consumer advocacy groups
State agencies
Board officers (Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary/Treasurer) are elected annually.
The Board hires an Executive Director to manage day-to-day operations.
All Board meetings are public and subject to the Freedom of Information Act.
2. Operational Rules
The Marketplace has authority to create its own internal rules, including:
Bylaws
Procurement procedures
Vendor management policies
It can operate independently of some traditional state agency laws, except for requirements like public transparency.
3. Vendor and Procurement Policies
Vendors wishing to do business with AHIM must follow specific rules, including:
Definitions of key terms such as “bid,” “vendor,” and “contract.”
Procedures for soliciting and evaluating proposals.
Contract awards based on best value.
Executive Director approval is required for contracts.
Dispute and protest procedures are outlined for vendors.
4. Emergency Rules
The Marketplace may adopt emergency operating rules to quickly respond to urgent situations affecting its functions.
5. Purpose
The rules of Agency 226 ensure that the Arkansas Health Insurance Marketplace:
Operates efficiently
Maintains public accountability
Complies with state and federal requirements
Provides a fair process for vendors
Has a structured governance system
6. Statutory Authority
The Marketplace is authorized by Arkansas law to administer the state’s health insurance exchange.
It can enter contracts, coordinate with federal and state programs, and carry out duties assigned by legislation.
RELATED Blog
comments