From ASDA

Explore ASDA Action

With the election in November, now is the time to explore the issues impacting the profession.

Learn about bills ASDA is supporting and monitoring.
Tell your legislator to support Medicaid dental benefits for adults.
Learn how to register to vote in your state
And so much more!

From Washington

Increase in the Number of Areas Needing Dentists

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the number of Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSAs) has increased. There are now 6,842 HPSAs across the country, an increase of 22 areas. This would require an additional 9,926 dental professionals to serve the HPSAs.

Why does this matter? ASDA supports initiatives to reduce the burden of student debt while caring for underserved populations through student loan forgiveness programs.

Several states offer opportunities for student loan forgiveness by practicing in underserved areas.

ADEA includes a list of programs by state that offer opportunities.

Additionally, companies like Delta Dental offer a Dentist Loan Repayment for Service Program for individuals interested in practicing in South Dakota.

It is important to be aware of your options if you want to help reduce the number of HPSAs when you graduate.

From the States

California Looks to Make Changes to Licensure

Introduced by Senator Smallwood-Cuevas, S.B. 1067 would create an opportunity to expedite the licensure process for an individual intending to practice in a medically underserved area.

Similarly to the loan forgiveness programs noted above, this change could help patients get the care that they need and may serve as an incentive for dental practitioners looking to practice in underserved areas.

California Proposes Expanding Medicaid

Introduced by Senator Wahab, S.B. 980 proposes expanding Medicaid to include coverage of crowns. Currently, only individuals who are 21 years or older are covered for laboratory-processed crowns to posterior teeth. This bill removes the condition that the teeth are posterior and changes the age to people who are 13 years and older.

Why does it matter? The American Student Dental Association supports evidence-based measures that are efficacious and sustainable in reducing barriers to care in underserved communities. These measures include, but are not limited to, early intervention, Medicaid expansion and co-location of health services.

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