As the new year approaches, dental professionals across Texas and the rest of the United States are preparing for a significant shift in regulatory requirements. The 2024 dental regulation bill has the power to reshape various aspects of dental practice and reimbursement. 

Understanding these changes is important for maintaining compliance and optimizing your practice’s operations.

Key Changes in the Federal Dental Reform Bill

The 2024 Dental Reform Bill introduces comprehensive changes aimed at improving access to dental care and enhancing the quality of services provided. Here are the key points you need to be aware of:

Expanded Medicaid Coverage

The recent bill is the expansion of Medicaid coverage for dental services for individuals and families. This change means a larger portion of the population will now have access to dental care, including routine check-ups, cleanings, and necessary treatments. For dental practices, this translates to an increase in the number of patients eligible for coverage, potentially expanding your patient base.

Reimbursement Rates Adjustment

Starting in 2024, the reimbursement rates for dental services under Medicaid and Medicare will be updated according to federal law. The updated rates aim to reflect the actual costs dental practices incur, enabling providers to offer high-quality care to patients on these programs. Make sure your billing department is up-to-date with these changes to maximize reimbursements.

Oral Health Professional Student Loans

The bill establishes a dedicated loan fund for oral health professional students under Section 779 of the Public Health Service Act. This provision addresses the rising cost of education for aspiring dental professionals, including dentists, dental hygienists, and dental therapists. The loan funds will operate similarly to the nursing loan program under Section 835, offering competitive loans to students pursuing oral health careers.

Telehealth Services

The new provisions are expanded to cover a broader range of dental services conducted by dental professionals remotely. This includes consultations, follow-up appointments, and certain types of assessments. Investing in telehealth technology can boost your practice’s flexibility and accessibility, catering to patients who prefer or require remote care options.

Other Dental-Specific Legislations

In addition to the federal changes, there have been American Dental Association (ADA) regulations to further improve dental care. 

As per ADA’s 514H-2024, dental practices can now hire more dental hygienists and assistants by relaxing certain licensure requirements and providing additional funding for training programs. This initiative aims to increase the number of qualified professionals available to support your practice, allowing you to meet patient demand effectively.

This can enhance efficiency within your practice and reduce wait times for patients. Additionally, the increased workforce availability means dental practices can take on more patients and provide better care continuity, particularly in underserved areas.

Looking for expert guidance to boost your dental clinic’s compliance? In addition to connecting you to the best vendors possible, our team at Elite Dental Alliance helps you stay up-to-date on new industry standards and regulatory requirements. Schedule a demo and get more insights for your improved practice today!