The proposed bill amends the Medicaid Provider-Led Organized Care Act to ensure that sedation dentistry is covered by risk-based provider organizations. It introduces new definitions and clarifications regarding sedation dentistry, which is defined as the administration of sedative medications during dental procedures to address various dental care needs. Specifically, the bill adds that direct service providers can include organizations or individuals delivering healthcare services, including sedation dentistry, to Medicaid beneficiaries.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing provisions to clarify that while certain dental benefits are excluded from the Medicaid provider-led organized care system, sedation dentistry is explicitly included. It also mandates that risk-based provider organizations process claims for sedation dentistry and ensure timely payment to direct service providers. Overall, the bill aims to enhance access to sedation dentistry for Medicaid beneficiaries by integrating it into the risk-based care framework.

Statutes affected:
HB 1840: 20-77-2703(6), 20-77-2703, 20-77-2705(b), 20-77-2706(f)