AlaskaCare takes comment on adding massage therapists to DB retiree plan

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 p.m. Alaska Time on Oct. 19, 2026.

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, P.O. Box 110203, Juneau, AK 99811-0203. A teleconference on how to comment is Thursday, Oct. 8, at 2 p.m. Alaska Time; details are in the notice. People needing a disability accommodation should call (907) 465-4460 by Oct. 9.

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.