MedicaidPrior AuthHigh impact
Alaska Medicaid SA Policy Guidance for DMES (Revised)
Alaska Medicaid·AK · PM&R (Physical Medicine & Rehab), Orthopedics, General Practice +2 more·Policy Update
Effective date
Jul 1, 2022
We identified it
Jun 21, 2026
Summary
Alaska Medicaid has revised its service authorization policy for Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics and Orthotics (DMEPOS), establishing specific timeframes for different equipment types and detailed procedures for obtaining prior authorization. The policy clarifies that service authorization is required before dispensing DMEPOS items, with exceptions only for temporary COVID guidelines and certain enteral nutrition cases.
Action Required
Immediately: Alaska providers must obtain service authorization before dispensing any DMEPOS items to Alaska Medicaid patients. Submit completed Certificate of Medical Necessity (CMN) forms with prescription orders and medical necessity documentation to Conduent SA unit. Update workflows to ensure 12-month approvals for monthly supplies, 6-month approvals for specialized equipment, 3-month approvals for off-the-shelf items, and 13-month approvals for capped rental items. Failure to obtain prior authorization will result in claim denials.