RD376 - Annual Report on the Virginia Medicaid/Famis Dental Program


Executive Summary:
With the support of the Governor, General Assembly and Virginia's dental community, the Virginia Medicaid/SCHIP Dental Program experienced a major transformation over the last year. The new dental program, called Smiles for Children, includes a substantial increase in fees, consolidated enrollment of all children into one dental benefit design, a single benefits administrator, and many service enhancements for providers.

Some of the most significant results of the new program include:

• As of September 30, 2006, 235 new dentists have joined the dental network, representing a 38% increase. There are eight localities that previously had nonparticipating dentists that now have access to dental services.

• Utilization of dental services has increased significantly within the first year of program operations with over 40,000 additional children receiving dental services.

• Streamlined administration of the program has resulted in prompt prior authorization and reimbursement for services.

• Participating dentists report that the new program compares very favorably to commercial dental insurance plans.

• The program is becoming a nationally recognized model for State Medicaid dental programs.

After the first year of operation for the new dental program, the following sections will demonstrate how "Smiles For Children" is making a difference in improving dental care across Virginia.