HJAR Jul/Aug 2026

HEALTHCARE JOURNAL OF ARKANSAS I  JUL / AUG 2026 45 Amber El-Amin Medicaid Communications Specialist Arkansas Department of Human Services Provider enrollment is a vital step for healthcare professionals and organizations seeking to participate in the Arkansas Medicaid program. As the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) continues to improve its enrollment process through the healthcare provider portal, providers now have access to a faster, more efficient, and more transparent way of enrolling, revalidating, and maintaining Medicaid participation. The electronic enrollment submission process has significantly reduced process- ing times, minimized application errors and returns, improved communication between providers and enrollment specialists, and in- creased the number of successful application submissions. Understanding the enrollment process, documentation requirements, and common application pitfalls can help provid- ers avoid delays and maintain uninterrupted participation in the Medicaid program. Because we understand that enrolling as an Arkansas Medicaid provider can be con- fusing, the following FrequentlyAsked Ques- tions (FAQs) address common concerns and offer guidance for navigating the enrollment process: How can I become an Arkansas Medicaid provider? To enroll as an Arkansas Medicaid pro- vider, go to the online enrollment applica- tion. It’s easier to avoid making errors that would result in your application being de- nied and returned to you for correction when you apply online. If you fail to enter needed Who must complete a fingerprint- based background check to become an Arkansas Medicaid provider? In accordance with Title 42 CFR 455.434, 42 CFR 455.50(c) and theArkansas Provider Manual section 141.103, federal fingerprint- based background checks are required for all high-risk providers and their owners who have a 5% or greater direct or indirect owner- ship interest as a condition of enrollment in theArkansas Medicaid program. Applicants who are required to complete the fingerprint- based background check will be notified by a letter from the provider enrollment depart- ment with instructions on how to complete the process. By understanding enrollment require- ments, maintaining accurate documentation, and utilizing available online resources, pro- viders can successfully enroll and continue serving Arkansas Medicaid beneficiaries without interruption. For more information and a full FAQ list, visit: ar.gov/providerenrollment n information, you will be prompted to provide it. If you have questions about how to enroll, call the provider enrollment line at (501) 376- 2211 or toll-free at (800) 457-4454. Who must pay an application fee? Certain provider types are subject to an ap- plication fee set by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The fee may be adjusted from year to year and is payable ev- ery five years. This federally mandated fee is used to offset the cost of conducting screen- ing activities associated with the Affordable Care Act (ACA). How can I apply for a temporary Arkansas Medicaid provider number? Arkansas Medicaid does not issue tem- porary provider numbers. To obtain an Ar- kansas Medicaid provider ID number, you must complete an application for enrollment. How often must I revalidate? All providers are required to revalidate every five years.