I-600 - The Impact of Medicaid Waivers and Policy Changes on Dentistry and Dental Education

Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provide health care coverage to low-income populations as well uninsured children and pregnant women respectively. States operate these programs within minimum benefits and coverage guidelines established by the federal government, and are permitted to expand coverage and offer optional benefits beyond the minimum required. Recently, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, have made several regulatory changes to Medicaid programs and have also permitted states to alter traditional federal guidelines through a waiver process. These alterations have had or likely will have a significant impact on Medicaid populations, and the way in which care is provided. Additionally, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) which allowed states to expand Medicaid coverage to new populations has faced several legislative, judicial, and regulatory challenges. This constant activity on both the state and federal level can be difficult to follow, and understanding the impact can be challenging. To stay current on recent changes and new challenges this discussion will feature expert insight on current policies that have the greatest impact on dental education.