The Alaska 34th Legislative Session Preview for Rehabilitation Professions
80th Percentile Rate Legislation
A lawsuit has been brought by six different provider groups, including the APTA Alaska Chapter, challenging the administrative order that successfully changed state regulations. The litigation continues, and third-hand reports indicate that the challenge is progressing well. This sets the stage on the political front for the legislature to aggressively pursue repealing the regulatory change and reinstating something closer to the old rate system. Legislators from across the board have been hearing continuously from numerous healthcare professionals in their home communities about the significant implications of rates in Alaska for providers following the 80th percentile rule change. These legislators are aware that 2024 was a particularly depressed market for rates, potentially impacting the quality of care. Bipartisan legislation will be forthcoming this session to revert to something closer to the old rate structure.
Occupational Therapy Compact
Successful efforts in the last legislature regarding the physical therapy and speech and hearing compacts have led us to actively discuss pursuing the occupational therapy compact this session. Conversations with legislative sponsors and AKOTA are ongoing, and this will be a top priority for the upcoming session.
Deaf and Hearing Bill of Rights Legislation
Although HB 111 passed through the legislative process last year, it was never transmitted to the governor due to some last-minute political maneuvering. The sponsors will be back again this session pushing for that legislation, and we will track its progress and keep AKSHA informed.
PA Scope of Practice
The Physician Assistants appear ready to make another attempt at expanding their scope of practice, which was a contentious issue during the final days of the last legislative session. We will monitor this closely and keep everyone updated.
David Parish & Associates, LLC