Iowa Senate Bill SF308

Iowa 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/15/23
• Refer: 2/15/23

Caption

A bill for an act relating to dental provider reimbursement under the dental wellness plan and the dental wellness plan kids.

Impact

The proposed changes in SF308 are anticipated to have a positive effect on dental care accessibility for children in Iowa. By raising reimbursement rates, the bill is expected to incentivize more dental providers to engage with the Dental Wellness Plan and the Dental Wellness Plan Kids. This could lead to a broader network of available dental services, ultimately benefiting children's oral health by ensuring they receive necessary dental care without financial barriers that may have previously deterred providers from participating.

Summary

Senate File 308, introduced by a group of senators, addresses reimbursement rates for dental providers participating in the Dental Wellness Plan and the Dental Wellness Plan Kids. The bill stipulates that these providers shall be compensated at either the percentage of their usual, customary, and reasonable fee or at the percentage of the commercial dental insurance billed charges—whichever is higher. This provision aims to align the reimbursement rates in these plans with the rates offered under the Healthy and Well Kids in Iowa (hawk-i) program, thereby enhancing participation among providers and improving access for members under these dental plans.

Contention

Although the details of discussions around SF308 are not elaborated, points of contention may arise regarding the equity of reimbursement rates and the budgetary implications for the state. Critics may suggest that the increased rates could strain state resources or favor urban over rural providers. Concerns could also stem from how effectively the enhanced access translates to actual improvements in dental health outcomes and whether similar initiatives should be extended to other areas of healthcare.