Here are seven federal government and policy updates affecting dentistry from the last 30 days:
1. The American Dental Hygienists’ Association shared concerns that the Education Department’s proposed loan changes will create additional financial barriers for students.
2. The HHS Department appointed five agency leaders to help advance the “Make America Healthy Again” initiative.
3. A coalition of 26 organizations advocated for CMS to appoint a new chief dental officer to strengthen oral health leadership and support policy initiatives.
4. The American Dental Association urged lawmakers to include oral health in any healthcare cost reforms.
5. The Department of Education will end the Saving on a Valuable Education program under a proposed settlement with the state of Missouri.
6. HHS’ Office of Inspector General found that four out of 30 selected dental providers did not comply with terms stipulated under the Provider Relief Fund program.
7. House Speaker Mike Johnson said Dec. 16 he won’t call a vote to extend the ACA’s enhanced subsidies, further increasing the likelihood that they will expire at the end of 2025.
