This bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 62Q.78, subdivision 6, to redefine "covered services" in the context of dental care. The new definition specifies that covered services are those dental care services that are reimbursed in whole or in part under a dental provider agreement, replacing the previous definition that included services for which reimbursement is available but subject to various contractual limitations. Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions that prohibit dentists from charging more than their usual and customary rates for services not classified as covered services and require dentists to provide patients with a treatment plan and cost estimates for non-covered services prior to treatment.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that dental plans or organizations retain the ability to impose restrictions related to covered services, including balance billing, waiting periods, frequency limitations, deductibles, and maximum annual benefits. These changes aim to enhance transparency and protect patients by ensuring they are informed about the costs of dental services and the nature of their coverage.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 62Q.78