AHCCCS; nonopioid drugs; formulary

HB 2823 requires Arizona's Medicaid program (AHCCCS) to treat nonopioid pain drugs equally with opioids on its drug formulary. It prohibits designating nonopioid drugs as "nonpreferred" when opioids are "preferred" and bans stricter rules like extra prior authorizations or step therapy for nonopioid options. This directly affects AHCCCS members seeking pain management treatment by ensuring nonopioid alternatives face no additional coverage barriers. The bill aims to provide equal access to nonopioid pain medications without discriminatory formulary restrictions. Currently in early legislative stages (first reading passed on February 11, 2025).