June 10, 2022

Alaska Updates Telemedicine Licensure Policies for Established Patients

When Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy signs House Bill 265 into law, the state will make permanent certain COVID-19 telemedicine policy flexibilities that we know improve access to patient care and that are a priority to our members.

With these changes, Alaska will join Oregon as the second state in our region to permit follow-up care to established patients without being licensed in those states since the WSMA embarked on this effort as part of its strategic plan. The Alaska law requires the physician to have previously conducted an in-person visit with the patient. The WSMA applauds the Alaska State Medical Association for its support of a measure that will improve access and quality by preserving continuity of care. Prior to this policy change, the WSMA heard anecdotes from physician members that patients from Alaska were flying to SeaTac Airport to receive follow-up care via telemedicine, and then returning home. Our hope is that with this policy change, physicians practicing in Washington will be able to provide more consistent follow-up care to established patients in Alaska, while minimizing travel burden.

Montana currently has an “occasional case exemption” rule that allows out-of-state physicians to treat in a limited timeframe and basis without obtaining a license (an application is required). While this may be an option for providing follow-up care to patients in Montana, the WSMA will continue to work with that state, in addition to Idaho and Wyoming, to encourage more permanent updates to telemedicine licensure policies that improve access to care.