Vetoed by Governor Chris Sununu

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to amend and pass a bill that requires state Medicaid plans to provide dental care coverage.

Highlights:

• Extends dental benefits under the Medicaid managed care program to individuals 21 years of age and over (Sec. 2).

• Requires the commissioner to pursue contracting options to administer the state’s Medicaid dental program with the goals of improving access to dental care for Medicaid populations, improving health outcomes for Medicaid enrollees, expanding the provider network, increasing provider capacity, and retaining innovative programs that improve access and care through a value-based care model (Sec. 2).

• Requires any vendor awarded a contract to provide the required dental services to children and the following dental services to individuals 21 years of age and over (Sec. 2):

• Preventive dental services including an annual comprehensive oral examination, necessary x-rays or other imaging, prophylaxis, topical fluoride, oral hygiene instruction, behavior management and smoking cessation counseling, and other services as determined by the commissioner;

• Comprehensive restorative treatment necessary to prevent or treat oral health conditions, to reduce or eliminate the need for future acute oral health care, and to avoid more costly medical or dental care;

• Treatment necessary to relieve pain, eliminate infection or prevent imminent tooth loss; and

• Prosthodontic coverage subject to medical necessity.

Full Bill Text