This bill establishes new minimum standards for health insurance provider networks in Alaska, mandating that health care insurers consider these standards when calculating benefits for policies that require or incentivize the use of limited networks of providers. The bill specifies that a health care insurer's network must include all licensed hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and mental health or substance abuse facilities in the state, as well as all licensed physicians, physician assistants, and advanced practice registered nurses associated with these facilities. Additionally, the bill outlines specific requirements for the number of providers that must be included in each of the six designated contracting regions in Alaska, with varying percentages based on the region.

Furthermore, the bill allows health care insurers to request exceptions to the minimum standards, which the director may grant for a limited time, and requires insurers to annually attest to their compliance with these standards. The bill also repeals a previous provision in AS 21.07.020(3) and grants the director the authority to adopt regulations necessary for implementation, including the ability to set higher standards than those specified in the bill. The effective date for this legislation is set for January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
SB0122A, AM SB 122, introduced 03/05/2025:
SB0122B, AM CSSB 122(HSS), introduced 04/07/2025: