(a) The department shall, by regulation, set rates of payment for health facilities under this chapter and AS 47.25.120 - 47.25.300 in accordance with 42 U.S.C. 1396 (Title XIX, Social Security Act, Medical Assistance) and this section. A rate established under this section takes effect under AS 44.62 (Administrative Procedure Act) but not until approved in writing by the commissioner. The commissioner may delegate the performance of these functions.
(b) In determining the rates of payment for health facilities for a fiscal year, the department shall, within the limit of appropriations made by the legislature for the department's programs under this chapter and under AS 47.25.120 - 47.25.300 for that fiscal year, including anticipated available federal revenue for that fiscal year, set rates for facilities that are based on
(1) reasonable costs related to patient care; and
(2) audit and inspection results and reports, when the audit or inspection is conducted under AS 47.07.074.
(c) This section does not apply to the minimum daily reimbursement rate specified by law under AS 47.24.017 or AS 47.25.195(e) for assisted living homes.