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HB 1241

TO ENSURE THAT THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM REIMBURSES FOR DENTAL AND ANESTHESIA COSTS FOR HIGH COMPLEXITY ORAL HEALTH CARE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Missy Irvin and 2 co-sponsors

Act 568 boosts Arkansas Medicaid by reimbursing up to $3,750 for complex dental care for adults with specific medical conditions, improving access and reducing costs.

Notification that HB1241 is now Act 568
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1241

Summary of House Bill 1241 (Act 568)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1241, now known as Act 568, aims to enhance the Arkansas Medicaid Program by ensuring reimbursement for dental and anesthesia costs associated with high complexity oral health care. This legislation is particularly focused on individuals with specific medical conditions that complicate their dental care needs.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several important provisions:

  1. Definition of High Complexity Oral Health Care:

    • High complexity oral health care is defined as dental care complicated by:
      • Craniofacial conditions diagnosed by qualified medical professionals.
      • Intellectual or developmental disabilities.

  2. Reimbursement Structure:

    • The Arkansas Medicaid Program will reimburse accredited dental schools and academic medical centers for dental and anesthesia costs:
      • Up to $3,750 per episode of care for individuals aged 18 and older requiring sedation dentistry.
      • An annual cap of $5,000 per individual for these services.
    • Costs exceeding the annual cap may be approved through a request for an extension of benefits by the Department of Human Services.

  3. Eligible Providers:

    • Reimbursement is available for services provided by:
      • Oral maxillofacial surgeons, dentists, dental specialists, anesthesiologists, pediatric dentists, and their support staff.

  4. Cost Considerations:

    • The reimbursement will cover professional fees only and will not include discounts or rebates on supply costs.

  5. Federal Compliance:

    • The Department of Human Services is tasked with applying for any necessary federal waivers or amendments to implement these changes.

Fiscal Impact

The fiscal analysis estimates a graded range of total computable impacts from $1.9 million to $9.4 million, with state shares ranging from $568,000 to $2.8 million. The costs per recipient for high complexity oral health care have been noted to range between $2,000 and $13,000.

Affected Population

This legislation primarily affects:
- Adults aged 18 and older with high complexity oral health care needs due to craniofacial conditions or intellectual/developmental disabilities.
- Dental schools and academic medical centers providing these specialized services.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: January 27, 2025
  • Passed: April 9, 2025
  • Enacted: April 14, 2025 (Notification that HB 1241 is now Act 568)

Conclusion

Act 568 represents a significant step in improving access to necessary dental care for individuals with complex medical needs in Arkansas. By ensuring Medicaid reimbursement for these services, the bill aims to alleviate financial burdens on patients and enhance the quality of care available to vulnerable populations.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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