Healthcare (Primary Care)

HB 347 clarifies and expands the scope of practice for occupational therapists (OTs) and occupational therapy assistants (OTAs) in Alaska. It allows OTs to provide services directly to patients without requiring a referral from another healthcare provider and defines specific services OTs may offer, including pain management, rehabilitation for daily activities, adaptive equipment training, and preventive care. The bill directly affects OTs, OTAs, and patients seeking these services by enabling more direct access to care. Key provisions (Section 08.84.095) detail how OTs can evaluate, treat, and support patients’ functional abilities across daily living, work, and community participation. The bill does not alter licensing or fees but streamlines service delivery within existing regulatory frameworks.

SB 121 establishes rules for how health insurance companies in Alaska set reimbursement rates for healthcare providers when no specific contract exists. It requires the state insurance director to set standards based on the 75th percentile of actual provider charges in the state (or higher), with primary care rates also needing to be at least 450% of Medicare's rates. Insurers must use statistically valid methods, apply rates uniformly, and undergo regular audits to ensure compliance. This directly affects health insurers and healthcare providers by standardizing payment calculations and preventing inconsistent or unfairly low reimbursements. The law takes effect January 1, 2026.