Considering all my bummer recent posts about Medicaid eligibility restrictions and AHCCCS’ ability to administer those changes recently, I looked around this week for some good AHCCCS news. I found some.
Last week AHCCCS finalized changes to their administrative rules that’ll be good. The changes include:
- Birth control: AHCCCS members can now get a one-year supply of oral contraceptives in a single pharmacy fill, rather than having to return repeatedly for refills.
- Cochlear implants: The rules added cochlear implants to the list of authorized services for adults, expanding access to technology that can help people with significant hearing loss. Sadly, bone anchored hearing aids still aren’t covered.
- Speech therapy: Outpatient speech therapy is now authorized when medically necessary, helping people with communication and swallowing problems (which can be dangerous).
- Tribal dental care: The new rules recognize expanded adult dental coverage through IHS and tribal facilities.
You can review the final AHCCCS rulemaking here.
The contraceptive change is especially practical. Requiring women to return to the pharmacy every month or every few months creates unnecessary barriers, particularly for people with transportation problems, unpredictable work schedules or limited pharmacy access.
A year’s supply reduces those obstacles and can help prevent unintended pregnancies.
The disability-related changes are important too. Cochlear implants can substantially improve people’s ability to function independently, take part in their communities and support their health.
And better access to dental care through tribal healthcare facilities addresses a longstanding gap in adult Medicaid benefits.
Note: The 12-month contraceptive benefit was an initiative by the governor using her executive authority. The cochlear implant and speech therapy changes implement legislation passed in 2025. The tribal dental provisions reflect earlier statutory and federal policy decisions.
