The bill aims to enhance patient choice and access to dental care by prohibiting unfair and deceptive practices in dental insurance. It introduces several new sections to chapter 48.43 RCW, including provisions that prevent dental-only plans from denying coverage for procedures performed on the same day, while still allowing for denials based on fraud prevention, clinical appropriateness, and other specified criteria. Additionally, the bill allows dental providers to receive reimbursements via credit card, provided that insurance carriers inform them of any associated fees and offer alternative payment methods without such fees.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the Office of the Insurance Commissioner to contract with the William D. Ruckelshaus Center to facilitate discussions among various stakeholders, including dental associations and insurance carriers, to address issues like dental loss ratios and payment structures. The bill also amends existing law to require health carriers to submit annual data on dental plans, ensuring that the information is based on Washington data and is publicly accessible for comparison among carriers. Notably, an emergency clause intended to expedite the implementation of these provisions was vetoed by the Governor, as the necessary preparations were already underway.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 48.44.035, 48.44.495, 48.43.743
Substitute Bill: 48.43.743
Bill as Passed Legislature: 48.43.743
Session Law: 48.43.743