Here are four states making major dental payer moves that Becker's has reported on since May 2:
1. Minnesota. Gov. Tim Walz signed the 2023 Health and Human Service omnibus bill, which expands dental care for adults on Medicaid. Starting in 2024, all adult beneficiaries of Medicaid will receive comprehensive dental coverage regardless of age.
2. Vermont. The Vermont legislature is expected to address stagnant Medicaid reimbursements for dental services in July 2024. A state budget approved by the legislature May 12 includes $13 million to raise Medicaid dental payment rates by 50 percent.
3. Rhode Island. The Rhode Island Senate proposed a bill that would establish a medical loss ratio for dental plans in the state. A medical loss ratio would require dental insurers to spend a set percentage of premium dollars on providing patient care, otherwise the difference is refunded.
4. New York. Medicaid dental coverage for adults in New York is being expanded after a legal settlement. More than five million residents will be able to receive better dental care and improve their oral health as a result.