01/11/2026
As a pediatric occupational therapist in private practice, I want to share an important update that directly affects Idaho families and children with disabilities.
We recently received a notice from Idaho Medicaid stating that Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Speech Therapy services are now limited to 20 visits per year, with any additional visits requiring pre-authorization. While a review process exists beyond that cap, it is lengthy, uncertain, and often delays or limits access to care.
For many of the children we serve, 20 visits is not even close to enough.
That is barely five months of weekly therapy, and many children require ongoing, consistent services to make meaningful progress with motor skills, communication, social emotional skills, feeding, sensory regulation, self regulation and independence.
These limits don’t just affect clinics.
They affect:
• Families trying to support their child
• Schools trying to meet educational needs
• Providers trying to follow best practice
• And most importantly, children trying to develop critical life skills
Early intervention and consistent therapy reduce long-term costs by improving function, independence, and participation. Cutting access now shifts a heavier burden onto families and schools later.
We will continue to advocate for our clients, submit pre-authorizations when needed, and support families through this process, but the reality is that this policy creates barriers where none should exist.
If you are a parent, caregiver, educator, or provider, please consider reaching out to your Idaho legislators and Medicaid officials.
Please contact the office of Governor Brad Little 208-334-2100
Idaho legislature information center 208-332-1000
Idleginfo@Iso.idaho.gov
General DHW contact (Medicaid and benefits) 877-456-1233
Medicaid Division (policy/administration) 208-334-5747
