Medicare Medically Necessary Dental Care Act of 2023

Medicare Medically Necessary Dental Care Act of 2023

This bill allows for coverage of certain medically necessary dental services under Medicare.

Specifically, the bill allows for coverage of dental services that are furnished (1) in conjunction with treatment relating to a prosthetic heart valve replacement, cancer of the head or neck, lymphoma, leukemia, or organ transplantation; and (2) within one year after the date of diagnosis or the date of the related surgical or medical treatment for the diagnosis, whichever is later.

Bill 118 hr 831, also known as the Medicare Medically Necessary Dental Care Act of 2023, aims to expand Medicare coverage to include medically necessary dental care for eligible beneficiaries. The bill recognizes the importance of oral health in overall well-being and seeks to address the current gap in coverage for dental services under Medicare.

Under the provisions of the bill, Medicare would cover a range of medically necessary dental services, including preventive care, restorative procedures, and emergency treatments. This would ensure that beneficiaries have access to essential dental care to maintain their oral health and prevent more serious health issues.

The bill outlines criteria for determining what constitutes medically necessary dental care, including the presence of a medical condition that requires dental treatment, the impact of oral health on overall health, and the necessity of the treatment for the individual's well-being. If passed, the Medicare Medically Necessary Dental Care Act of 2023 would represent a significant step forward in addressing the oral health needs of Medicare beneficiaries and improving overall health outcomes. It would provide much-needed coverage for essential dental services and help ensure that all individuals have access to the care they need to maintain their oral health.