Bill > SB83

This bill establishes requirements for telehealth reimbursement across various government health insurance plans in Alaska. Specifically, the bill mandates that health care insurers must reimburse health care providers for telehealth services (including behavioral health services) at the same rate and on the same basis as in-person services. This requirement applies to municipal group health insurance plans, state employee health insurance plans, and self-insured health plans. The bill amends existing statutes to ensure that all government-related health insurance plans must provide equal treatment for telehealth services, meaning providers cannot be paid less for delivering care remotely compared to in-person consultations. The changes will take effect on January 1, 2026, and are designed to support more flexible and accessible healthcare delivery by ensuring that telehealth services are financially equivalent to traditional in-person medical consultations. By standardizing reimbursement rates, the bill aims to encourage the use of telehealth and remove potential financial disincentives for healthcare providers offering remote medical services.

Health and Social Services

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=SB83