Dentists and lawmakers have continued to push for increased oversight of dental insurers and transparency of their practices.
Four updates since March 9:
1. The American Dental Association urged the Federal Trade Commission’s new Healthcare Task Force to investigate competition and transparency within the dental insurance market. The ADA shared specific concerns related to large market concentration, regulations that limit competition and a lack of transparency with supplemental dental benefits under Medicare Advantage plans.
2. A newly signed bill in Oklahoma closes a loophole that allows dental insurers to set prices for services they do not cover. Under Senate Bill 1942, dental insurance plans can no longer force dentists to accept insurer-set fees for services and procedures that are not covered by a patient’s dental plan. The bill aims to strengthen patient choice by letting dentists and patients to determine the best course of action without interference from insurance companies.
3. U.S. Reps. Jeff Van Drew, R-N.J., and Herb Conaway, D-N.J., introduced a bill that would uphold state regulations for self-funded dental plans. The Improving Dental Administration Act aims to close loopholes under the the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 that allows dental insurance carriers to operate with less state oversight. The bill would reassert states’ rights to regulate coverage offered in their respective insurance markets and further protect patients.
4. The New York State Dental Association is advocating for the state to create a dental loss ratio for dental insurers. The organization is currently supporting a bill that would require insurance companies in New York to report how much they currently spend each year. Depending on spending data, the NYSDA may later push for a dental loss ratio, which mandates insurers to spend a certain percentage of premiums on patient care rather than administrative costs.
At the Becker's 5th Annual Future of Dentistry Roundtable, taking place September 14-15 in Chicago, dental leaders and executives will gain insights into emerging technologies, practice growth strategies and the evolving landscape of dental care delivery, with a focus on innovation, patient experience and operational excellence. Apply for complimentary registration now.
