AK SB175

Allows health care providers (except out-of-state physicians) to provide telehealth services without an in-person visit; out-of-state physicians may only provide telehealth if an established physician-patient relationship exists and prior physical exam was conducted.

Permits physicians, podiatrists, osteopaths, and physician assistants to prescribe controlled substances via telehealth if they comply with existing regulations; advanced practice registered nurses may also prescribe controlled substances through telehealth under specified conditions.

Requires health care providers to advise patients when services extend beyond their scope of practice, recommend appropriate providers, and prohibits charging for out-of-scope services.

Mandates medical assistance program pay for telehealth services the same as in-person services for behavioral health, home and community-based waivers, and most other covered services; prohibits reducing payment rates based on service location, provider location, or communication method.

Requires applicable licensing boards to adopt regulations by June 30, 2023; makes some provisions conditional on federal Medicaid approval by specified dates.