Virginia to Raise Dental Reimbursement for Patients on Medicaid

The new proposed state budget for Virginia includes more than $700 million to increase reimbursement to dentists who care for patients covered by Medicaid, in addition to healthcare professionals serving patients with developmental disabilities and long-term care facilities. In 2021, Virginia expanded Medicaid benefits to include dental care. However, not enough dentists accepted patients covered by Medicaid due to the low reimbursement. Public health officials hope this move will encourage more dentists to treat Medicaid patients so that vulnerable populations receive preventive care, reducing the need for emergency dental treatment. The budget is currently awaiting a signature from Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin. Click here to read more.