The ADA led a coalition of dental organizations in support of federal legislation that would make dental and oral health services a required benefit for adults enrolled in Medicaid, saying the proposal would help protect access to care for millions of low-income Americans.
The ADA continues its advocacy for comprehensive adult dental benefits as a required Medicaid service, saying oral health is integral to overall health and that access to dental care should not depend on where a patient lives.
In a July 22 letter to Sen. Angela Alsobrooks, D-Md., and Rep. Nanette Barragán, D-Calif., the organizations thanked the lawmakers for introducing the Medicaid Dental Benefit Act, which would make adult dental coverage a mandatory component of Medicaid in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. According to the letter, the legislation has taken on added importance following enactment of H.R. 1, which places additional pressure on state Medicaid programs and could increase the likelihood that optional benefits, including adult dental coverage, are reduced or eliminated as states respond to budget constraints.
Source: ADA backs legislation to make adult dental benefits mandatory under Medicaid / ADA News