AlaskaCare retiree plan proposes adding licensed massage therapists as providers in 2027

Licensed massage therapists would become recognized providers in the AlaskaCare Defined Benefit Retiree Health Plan starting Jan. 1, 2027, under a proposal open for comment. Written comments are due by 4:30 pm Oct. 19.

The proposal does not set coverage terms; it only would recognize the provider category. Massage would still be covered only when medically necessary, and a consultant projects the change would cost the plan $650,000 to $750,000 a year, according to the Division of Retirement and Benefits' summary. The division is reviewing it with the Alaska Retiree Health Plan Advisory Board. The separate AlaskaCare Defined Contribution retiree plan already lists massage therapists among covered providers.

Retirees can comment by email at [email protected] or by mail to the Division of Retirement and Benefits. The division will hold a teleconference on how to comment Oct. 8 at 2 pm; details are in the notice.

After comment closes, the board will send an advisory recommendation to the Commissioner of the Department of Administration, who serves as plan administrator and makes the final decision.