Bill
A 5299
Bill A 5299 expands the Doctors Across New York program to include dentists, boosting dental care access in underserved areas through financial incentives for providers.
Bill Number: A 5299
Title: Expands the Doctors Across New York Program to Include Dentists
Status: Referred to Health
Introduced: February 12, 2025
Classification: Bill
Bill A 5299 aims to expand the existing Doctors Across New York (DANY) program to include dentists. The primary intent of this legislation is to address the shortage of dental care providers in underserved areas of New York State. By incorporating dentists into the DANY program, the bill seeks to enhance access to dental services for populations that may currently face barriers to care.
Inclusion of Dentists: The bill specifically allows dentists to participate in the Doctors Across New York program, which was originally designed to incentivize physicians to practice in underserved areas.
Incentives for Dentists: Similar to the existing provisions for physicians, the bill may include financial incentives such as loan repayment assistance or grants for dentists who commit to serving in designated shortage areas.
Eligibility Criteria: The bill outlines eligibility requirements for dentists, which may include licensure, practice location, and commitment duration in underserved communities.
Program Administration: The bill designates the New York State Department of Health as the administering body for the expanded program, ensuring that it aligns with existing health care initiatives.
Target Population: The expansion of the DANY program to include dentists is expected to benefit residents in rural and urban underserved areas who currently lack adequate access to dental care.
Healthcare Providers: Dentists who choose to participate in the program will have access to financial incentives, potentially encouraging more dental professionals to practice in areas with significant need.
Public Health Outcomes: By improving access to dental care, the bill aims to enhance overall public health outcomes, reduce dental disease prevalence, and improve quality of life for affected populations.
Legislative Status: As of February 12, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Health Committee for further consideration.
Related Legislation: The bill is related to several prior-session bills (A 3747, A 2719, A 7179, A 5279, A 3977, A 7345, A 1454) and has a companion bill in the Senate (S 5091), indicating ongoing legislative interest in addressing healthcare provider shortages.
Bill A 5299 represents a significant step towards improving dental care access in New York State by expanding the Doctors Across New York program to include dentists. If passed, it could lead to enhanced healthcare delivery in underserved communities, ultimately benefiting public health and well-being.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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