The Arkansas Insurance Department (AID) has issued a bulletin to remind insurance companies about the yearly deadline for submitting pharmacy network adequacy data. Released on February 3, 2026, the bulletin clarifies the ongoing requirement for insurers using pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) to report this information annually under state regulation 23 CAR part 146.
Insurers must submit their pharmacy network data by March 1 each year. If this date falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline moves to the next business day. For example, data covering the full calendar year of 2025 needs to be handed in no later than March 1, 2026.
While PBMs can help gather the necessary information, the responsibility for ensuring the data is accurate and submitted on time rests with the insurer. Submissions must follow specific guidelines set by the AID, including using the department’s “General Data Submission Process to RHLD” and adhering to file formats and naming conventions detailed in the department’s reporting instructions. These resources are available on the Arkansas Insurance Department’s website.
This reminder not only reinforces the annual deadline but also emphasizes the importance of following proper procedures to maintain compliance. By keeping tabs on pharmacy network adequacy, the AID aims to ensure consumers in Arkansas have sufficient access to pharmacy services through their health plans.