Alaska's Traditional Health Care Practices 1115 Demonstration Waiver
Application for new 1115 Waiver Demonstration
Overview
Alaska is applying for a new 1115 demonstration waiver to include Traditional Health Care Practices (THCPs) as a Medicaid-reimbursable service when provided to eligible beneficiaries who are Alaska Native or American Indian (AN/AI) (as defined in 25 U.S.C. 1603(13)) at Qualified Entities (as defined in 25 USC 1603(25)).
THCPs are practices based on principles that have been traditionally used in Tribal communities since time immemorial. THCPs embody a whole-person approach to health and wellness and are validated utilizing the process that has been established by the Tribes.
The Department proposes that this demonstration will be effective from December 31, 2026, through December 31, 2031, with Medicaid coverage of THCPs beginning no earlier than January 1, 2028.
The full application can be found at the following link:
Alaska DOH THCP 1115 Demonstration 10/05/2026How to sign up
The 30-day public comment period was held from October 5, 2026 to November 4, 2026.
Sign up for public notices related to the Alaska Department of Health:
Online Public NoticesPublic hearings
The Department held two public hearings on the demonstration application in accordance with CMS requirements. These were held on October 14, 2026 (Juneau) and October 16, 2026 (Anchorage).
Contact us
Commissioner's Office: Traditional Health Care Practices 1115 Demonstration Waiver
Attn: Christal Hays
Department of Health, Commissioner's Office, 3601 C Street, Suite 902, Anchorage, AK 99503