Arkansas House Bill HB1622

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/14/23
• Refer: 3/14/23
• Report Pass: 3/30/23
• Engrossed: 4/3/23
• Refer: 4/3/23
• Report Pass: 4/5/23
• Enrolled: 4/7/23

Caption

To Create The Heart Attack Task Force; And To Provide For The Powers And Duties Of The Heart Attack Task Force.

Impact

The bill authorizes the creation of a task force comprising fourteen members, including representatives from major health organizations and state departments like the Department of Health, as well as various medical associations. The task force will recommend practices to the State Board of Health, focusing on raising public awareness, enhancing professional development for emergency services, and improving treatment options for heart attack victims. Additionally, they are tasked with developing methods to implement a state heart attack registry to monitor treatment effectiveness.

Summary

House Bill 1622 establishes the Heart Attack Task Force in Arkansas, aimed at addressing the high prevalence of heart diseases within the state. The bill acknowledges that heart diseases are the leading cause of death in the U.S., with Arkansas having one of the highest heart attack mortality rates. To combat this issue, the task force will be responsible for developing standards and policies aimed at reducing both the human and financial toll of heart attacks in Arkansas.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its proactive approach to a significant public health issue, there may be concerns regarding the allocation of funding and resources toward the task force’s initiatives. The implications for healthcare infrastructure, particularly in underserved communities, might lead to discussions about equity in health services and the accessibility of heart attack treatment. Some stakeholders may view the establishment of the task force as necessary while others could point out challenges in ensuring effective implementation and follow-through.