Massachusetts 2025-2026 Regular Session

Massachusetts Senate Bill S807

Introduced
2/27/25  

Caption

Relative to dental insurance assignment of benefits

Impact

The bill would amend Chapter 176W of the Massachusetts General Laws to incorporate a new chapter (Chapter 176X), which explicitly addresses dental benefit plans. This change represents an important shift towards consumer empowerment, as patients will gain more control over how their insurance benefits are utilized. By facilitating direct payments to non-contracted providers, proponents argue that it could improve patient satisfaction and encourage a broader range of care options, particularly in areas where there are shortages of providers within certain networks.

Summary

Senate Bill 807, titled 'An Act relative to dental insurance assignment of benefits,' aims to enhance the flexibility of dental benefit plans in Massachusetts. Specifically, it introduces provisions that allow individuals insured by dental benefit plans to direct their insurers to pay benefits directly to dental care providers who do not have a contract with the insurer but meet its credentialing criteria. This means that patients can choose their own dental care providers without being restricted to those affiliated with their insurance plan, thus potentially increasing their access to dental care services.

Contention

While the bill is designed to enhance access to dental care, it may also raise concerns among insurance providers and dental associations about potential impacts on costs and the stability of insurance networks. Critics fear that allowing direct payments to non-contracted providers could lead to increased costs for insurance companies, which might eventually result in higher premiums for consumers. Additionally, there may be debates surrounding the quality of care provided by non-contracted dentists and whether they adhere to the same standards as those within the established networks.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MA S698

Relative to dental insurance assignment of benefits

MA H1110

Relative to dental insurance assignment of benefits

MA H1124

Relative to dental insurance assignment of benefits

MA S697

Relative to dental insurance consumer protections

MA H1122

Relative to financial services contracts for dental benefits corporations

MA S718

Relative to insurance coverage of mobile integrated health

MA H1007

Relative to insurance coverage of mobile integrated health

MA H973

Relative to unclaimed life insurance benefits

MA H3554

Relative to insurance coverage of hearing aids

MA S680

Relative to insurance coverage for doula services

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.