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SB 347

TO REQUIRE THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM TO INCREASE REIMBURSEMENT RATES FOR CERTAIN DENTAL SERVICES AND TO SET AN ANNUAL REIMBURSEMENT CAP FOR ADULT DENTAL SERVICES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Julie Mayberry and 1 co-sponsor

Arkansas Medicaid must increase reimbursement rates for select dental services while capping total annual adult dental spending, aiming to boost provider participation while controlling costs.

Notification that SB347 is now Act 1025
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 347

Legislative bill overview

SB 347 mandates that Arkansas's Medicaid program increase reimbursement rates for specific dental services and simultaneously establishes an annual cap on total reimbursements for adult dental coverage. The bill has passed both chambers and become Act 1025 as of April 23, 2025.

Why is this important

Dental care access is a persistent problem in Medicaid programs, as low reimbursement rates often discourage providers from accepting Medicaid patients. This bill attempts to address provider participation by raising rates, but the annual cap may limit the scope of services available to adult beneficiaries, creating a tension between improving access and controlling costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Rate increases vs. budget impact: While higher reimbursement rates may attract more dental providers, the fiscal cost to the state Medicaid budget could be substantial and may require cuts elsewhere or tax increases to fund.
  • Annual cap limitations: A ceiling on adult dental reimbursements may restrict coverage for complex procedures or beneficiaries with significant dental needs, potentially shifting costs to emergency rooms or leaving treatment incomplete.
  • Equity concerns: The bill specifies "certain dental services" and applies caps only to adults, raising questions about which services are prioritized and whether children receive better coverage, and whether this creates disparities based on age or procedure type.

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

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