What is APTA Alaska doing to protect and expand payment?
Protecting the 80% Rule
The 80% rule mandates payment minimums for out-of-network providers, protects against insurance companies dropping in-network providers, and allows private practices to better negotiate reimbursement.
APTA Alaska has jointly filed a lawsuit against the State of Alaska to maintain the 80% Rule.
APTA Alaska is working to ensure the passage of Senate Bill 121, which would codify the 80% rule into law.
Compact Licensure
The Compact is a group of States, in which only one license is needed for therapists to practice. This reduces costs to businesses & therapists by reducing licensing time for new hires and increasing the pool of available applicants.
APTA Alaska’s legislative advocacy led to the enactment of legislation which permits Alaska to join the Physical Therapy Compact. This legislation was passed in August 2024 and was fully implemented on May 1st 2025.
Reducing Burden of Prior Authorizations
APTA Alaska is working to support passage of Senate Bill 133, which will reduce the administrative burden of prior authorizations, and prevent delays in patient care.
This law will require all insurance companies to have a prior authorization process that is reasonable, efficient, and follow strict timelines for processing. This will help reduce delays in care that impact both patients and payments.
Once signed into law it would take effect on January 1st 2027.
