Description
The Alaska Department of Health is proposing regulatory amendments to Title 7 of the Alaska Administrative Code that would establish new service rates, limits, and prior‑authorization requirements for Medicaid Behavioral Health 1115 Waiver sub‑acute stabilization and residential services. The changes add a new section (7 AAC 139.450) allowing the department to pay for services provided by state‑licensed sub‑acute mental health facilities, and they amend existing rate tables. Stakeholders may submit written comments by October 21, 2026 and may provide oral comments via a Zoom hearing on October 6, 2026. No additional state funding is required; the action is driven by compliance with new state statutes (HB 172).
• Affects Medicaid behavioral‑health providers offering sub‑acute stabilization and residential care in Alaska.
• Introduces prior‑authorization for service limits and sets specific payment rates.
• Public comment period runs until 5:00 p.m. Oct 21, 2026; oral comments accepted Oct 6, 2026 (Zoom).
• Contact for comments and questions: William Hurr (Acting Social Services Program Officer).
• No new appropriations; cost to private persons estimated at $0.