Maryland Medical Assistance Program - Adult and Pediatric Dental Services - Review of Reimbursement Rates
Impact
If enacted, SB948 would establish a systematic review process for reimbursement rates, ensuring that they keep pace with market rates paid by commercial insurers. This necessitates that the Department provides periodic reports to relevant legislative committees comparing state reimbursement rates to federal Medicare fees. The intention behind this is to enhance access to dental services for individuals reliant on the Medical Assistance Program, which may have historically struggled with inadequate payment structures for providers.
Summary
Senate Bill 948 focuses on the Maryland Medical Assistance Program, specifically regarding adult and pediatric dental services. The bill mandates the Maryland Department of Health to conduct regular reviews of the billed charges and reimbursement rates for dental services to ensure that they are adequate for program recipients. A significant aspect of the bill is to revise these reimbursement rates in a way that ensures adequate access to dental care for recipients, making certain that the rates are not lower than the average commercial rates.
Contention
Notably, the bill might face contention over the implications of rate adjustments and how they are determined. Stakeholders may voice concerns regarding the capacity of providers to meet these new benchmarks, as well as the financial sustainability for the state in maintaining or increasing these reimbursement rates. The discussion may also explore the broader implications for healthcare equity, ensuring that low-income families have access to necessary dental services without financial hardship.
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