Connecticut State Dental Association Responds to Governor Malloy’s Budget Plan

SOUTHINGTON, Conn., Feb. 10 -- The Connecticut State Dental Association issued the following news release:

The Connecticut State Dental Association (CSDA) today responded with cautious optimism to the release of Governors proposed budget and the impact it will have on dental health care for Connecticut residents.

"While we understand the tough choices that the Governor faced as it relates to the budget, we are grateful for his efforts to maintain funding for adult dental Medicaid," said Dr. Michael Ungerleider, President of the CSDA. "By adding a provision for an annual benefits cap that corresponds with what is seen in the private insurance market, the state can receive significant annual savings while maintaining access for those who receive dental care through the Medicaid program. We appreciate his recognition that without appropriate reimbursement rates, dentists may face difficult decisions as to whether to continue to provide care to Medicaid clients."

"By maintaining the dental Medicaid rates, the dental provider network will remain intact, allowing continued improvement in the oral health of thousands of Connecticut's citizens. It has been proven that oral health is essential to overall health and well-being, and that untreated dental diseases such as gingivitis, periodontal disease, and other oral infections may lead to complications associated with heart disease and diabetes. It is important that dental care be made readily available to those who qualify for Medicaid and that adequate funding for those programs continue," said Dr. Ungerleider.

[Category: Dentistry]

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