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SB 5507

Providing coverage for massage therapy under medical assistance plans.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Annette Cleveland and 3 co-sponsors

SB 5507 expands Washington Medicaid to cover massage therapy services for eligible low-income residents, increasing state healthcare costs and treatment access.

Public hearing in the Senate Committee on Health & Long-Term Care at 8:00 AM.
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Bill Summary · SB 5507

Legislative bill overview

SB 5507 would expand Washington's medical assistance (Medicaid) program to include coverage for massage therapy services. The bill specifically directs the state to cover massage therapy as a treatment option for eligible beneficiaries, potentially through licensed massage therapists or regulated practitioners.

Why is this important

Medicaid coverage expansion affects healthcare access for low-income Washingtonians and increases state healthcare spending. This change could improve treatment options for conditions like chronic pain, muscle tension, and certain injuries—though it also represents a new budget commitment during a time of fiscal scrutiny.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and budgeting: Adding massage therapy coverage increases Medicaid expenditures; the bill doesn't specify funding mechanisms or cost estimates, raising questions about implementation impact on the state budget
  • Clinical evidence debate: While massage therapy has some research support for certain conditions, medical professionals disagree on whether it should be prioritized alongside other treatment options in a limited-resource system
  • Scope and utilization concerns: Unclear definitions of what qualifies as covered massage therapy, how many sessions would be allowed, and whether this could lead to overutilization or fraud concerns

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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