Medicaid is a federal-state partnership with programs established in the federal Social Security Act and implemented at the state level with federal matching funds.  The Health Care Authority (HCA) administers the Medicaid Program for health care for low-income state residents who meet certain eligibility criteria.  Washington's Medicaid Program, known as Apple Health, offers a complete medical benefits package, including prescription drug coverage, to eligible families, children under age 19, low-income adults, certain disabled individuals, and pregnant women.

HCA must provide Medicaid coverage for massage therapy performed by a licensed massage therapist when medically necessary as a non-pharmacological alternative for pain treatment or pain management and with a referral from an authorized provider to order or refer items or service beginning January 1, 2027.

PRO: Opioid use for pain management is still a problem. This bill considers an alternative to opioid usage for pain and makes it available for patients. The bill ensures equitable access for low-income patients and it fills a needed gap in the state. Medicaid has expanded coverage to chiropractic visits and acupuncture care. Massage therapy services should also be included as it will help lower the overall cost to the state and it will help reduce hospital admissions and lower emergency room costs and visits.