MedicaidPrior AuthHigh impact
Introduction to Program Change - Therapy
Alaska Medicaid·AK · Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy·Program Update
Effective date
Jul 1, 2023
We identified it
Jun 21, 2026
Summary
Alaska Medicaid is implementing new prior authorization requirements for therapy services (PT, OT, and SLP) for members 21 and older, effective July 1, 2023, with specific unit limits per fiscal year. Additionally, habilitation services will be covered for all ages starting March 3, 2023, and treatment plan requirements have been updated.
Action Required
By July 1, 2023: Billing team must implement prior authorization tracking system for Alaska Medicaid therapy services for members 21+ with unit limits: 2 PT/OT evaluations, 30 PT/OT therapy units, 8 SLP evaluations, 15 SLP therapy units per fiscal year. Update billing software to flag when limits are reached. Train staff on new habilitation service coverage and updated treatment plan requirements (6-week intervals vs 4-week for members 21+).