State seeks public comment on new Medicaid home care services by June 22

The Alaska Department of Health is accepting public comments through June 22 on proposed regulations that would create two new types of Medicaid-funded home care services for people with disabilities.

The changes would allow the state to certify specialized family home and specialized group home habilitation providers. These services would expand options for Alaskans who receive home and community-based waiver services, which help people with disabilities live outside of institutions.

The department will hold a public hearing on June 12 from noon to 1 p.m. via Zoom and telephone. To join by phone, call 1-833-928-4608 and use meeting ID 844 9764 2780 and passcode 371652. There will be no in-person attendance option.

The proposed regulations also update payment rates for existing services, clarify which family members can provide paid care, and revise rules about respite services. The department says the changes will not require additional state funding.

Written comments must be received by 5 p.m. on June 22. Send comments to Jordyn Grant at the Department of Health, 1835 Bragaw St., Anchorage, AK 99508, or by email to [email protected] or fax to 907-269-3689.

The full proposed regulations and supporting documents are available on the Alaska Online Public Notice System. Questions must be submitted at least 10 days before the comment deadline.

For disability accommodations, contact Jordyn Grant at 907-538-9240 or [email protected] by June 4.