Alaska certifies first two behavioral health clinics under federal demonstration program

Alaska certified its first two behavioral health clinics under a federal demonstration program that guarantees sustainable Medicaid funding for comprehensive mental health and substance use services.

Alaska Behavioral Health in Fairbanks and JAMHI Health & Wellness in Juneau completed certification requirements for the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic Medicaid Demonstration Program. The four-year demonstration replaces traditional Medicaid reimbursement with a prospective payment system designed to provide financial stability for 24-hour crisis response and a full continuum of care.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, selected Alaska as one of 10 states to participate in the program. The department announced the selection May 28, 2026.

Jenn Carson, director of the Alaska Division of Behavioral Health, said the milestone reflects the dedication of providers, partners, advocates, and communities across Alaska who have worked together to strengthen behavioral health services. "We are grateful for their collaboration and look forward to continuing this work to ensure Alaskans can access the care and support they need, when and where they need it," Carson said.

The two certified clinics completed a one-year planning phase during which the state developed a Medicaid prospective payment system and implementation plan. Alaska Behavioral Health operates multiple Fairbanks clinics providing assessment, outpatient treatment, and specialty services. JAMHI Health & Wellness serves Juneau and surrounding Southeast Alaska communities as a community behavioral health and primary care provider.

Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics must provide 24-hour crisis services, timely access to outpatient care, and a comprehensive range of behavioral health services. Clinics must use evidence-based practices informed by community needs assessments and serve anyone seeking mental health or substance use disorder treatment, regardless of ability to pay, residence, or age. Services must include developmentally appropriate care for children and youth.

The state is seeking additional providers to participate in the demonstration. Parties interested in becoming a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic should contact [email protected].