AFMC is contracted by the Division of Provider Services & Quality Assurance (DPSQA) to complete Level II PASRR evaluations of individuals being considered for admission to Medicaid-certified nursing facilities in Arkansas.
The federally mandated Pre-Admission Screening and Resident Review (PASRR) program is designed to ensure individuals with serious mental illness (SMI), intellectual disability (ID), or related conditions are appropriately placed in nursing facilities and receive the services they need.
WHY IS PASRR IMPORTANT?
PASSR is essential to protecting the rights of individuals with SMI, ID, or related conditions. It ensures these individuals are:
- not inappropriately placed in a nursing facility,
- evaluated for specialized services,
- and supported in the most appropriate and least restrictive setting possible.
By identifying psychological, functional, and psychiatric needs alongside an individual's personal goals and preferences, PASRR advances person-centered care, quality care, and ensures informed placement decisions.
PASRR aligns with the Supreme Court's decision in Olmstead vs. L.C. (1999), helping states comply with this legal requirement.
These assessments enhance the quality of life of individuals with SMI or ID, enabling them to receive the care they need in care environments that help them thrive.
If you are a patient or a caregiver/guardian of a PASRR client and you have questions, please reach out to the AFMC PASRR team.
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📞 855-551-5015
WHAT ROLE DO PROVIDERS PLAY?
Healthcare providers are often the first point of contact for those entering the long-term care system. Your role in initiating the PASRR process starts with Level I screenings. PASRR Level I screenings help identify individuals with SMI, ID, or related conditions requiring a Level II evaluation for admission to a nursing facility.
Accurate and timely completion of Level I screenings ensures individuals are appropriately assessed and receive the services they need. Prompt assistance prevents delays in care transitions, ensuring individuals receive the appropriate care without unnecessary institutionalization. Your specialized knowledge of a person's medical history, social circumstances, and functional abilities contributes to more effective and personalized care strategies.
Positive Level I Assessment Process
1. Provider completes the Level I assessment. If positive, send it to DHS at
2. Positive Level I assessments will be reviewed by DHS. If DHS agrees that a Level II assessment is necessary, DHS will forward the Level I assessment to AFMC to complete. If during the review, DHS does not agree that a Level II assessment is necessary, DHS will contact the provider and no further action will be required.
3. AFMC will complete the Level II assessment.
4. DHS will review the Level II assessment and make a determination for admission to a nursing facility. This determination will be communicated to AFMC. AFMC will then distribute the determination result to the client, facility, and the representative / guardian.
If you need assistance or training for Level I screenings, please contact:
(501) 682-2441, ext. 8
For Level II technical assistance, contact AFMC:
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📞 855-551-5015
Additional Resources
Arkansas Department of Human Services
New PASRR Process
PASRR Level I Documents
