Denti-Cal program: reimbursement rates.
The bill targets significant deficiencies within California's Denti-Cal program, which currently serves 13 million low-income residents, including five million children. Observations noted that only 37.8% of eligible children managed to see a dentist in 2014, primarily due to low provider participation resulting from inadequate reimbursement rates that are substantially lower than the national average. By articulating a clear increase in reimbursement, AB 15 is designed to stimulate greater dentist involvement and thus improve access to dental care for affected populations.
Assembly Bill No. 15, also referred to as the Denti-Cal Program Act, aims to enhance the dental coverage for low-income Californians by increasing reimbursement rates for dental providers. Specifically, the bill mandates that the State Department of Health Care Services will double the reimbursements for the 15 most common dental services to align with regional average commercial rates effective January 1, 2018. This adjustment is intended to improve the quality of care and increase the participation of dental providers in the Denti-Cal program, especially in underserved areas.
The sentiment surrounding AB 15 appears to be largely positive among lawmakers and healthcare advocates who view it as a necessary step to correct an ailing system that has failed many California children and families. The emphasis on preventative care aligns with broader healthcare objectives to reduce chronic conditions associated with poor dental health. However, there may be dissent regarding fiscal implications and broader budgetary priorities associated with funding the increased reimbursements.
Although the sentiment is predominantly supportive, some issues have been raised regarding the reliance on funds generated from the California Healthcare, Research, and Prevention Tobacco Tax Act. There are concerns that the bill may not adequately address the underlying issues of provider distribution or retention in rural areas, leaving certain communities still vulnerable. Moreover, while the bill aims to increase utilization, actual implementation and the efficacy of these changes will require close monitoring to ensure goals are met, particularly in areas where dentist access remains problematic.