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Medicare Dental Benefit Act of 2023

3/12/2024, 5:12 PM

Summary of Bill S 2012

Bill 118 s 2012, also known as the Medicare Dental Benefit Act of 2023, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main purpose of this bill is to expand Medicare coverage to include dental benefits for eligible beneficiaries.

If passed, this bill would provide Medicare beneficiaries with coverage for preventive and basic dental services, such as cleanings, fillings, and extractions. This would help to address the significant gap in dental coverage for seniors and individuals with disabilities who rely on Medicare for their healthcare needs.

The bill also aims to improve overall health outcomes for Medicare beneficiaries by ensuring they have access to essential dental care. Poor oral health has been linked to a variety of serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. By including dental benefits in Medicare, this bill seeks to promote better overall health and well-being for older Americans. In addition to expanding coverage, the Medicare Dental Benefit Act of 2023 also includes provisions to improve access to dental care for underserved populations, such as individuals living in rural areas or low-income communities. This could help to address disparities in oral health outcomes and ensure that all Medicare beneficiaries have access to the care they need. Overall, the passage of Bill 118 s 2012 would represent a significant step forward in improving healthcare for older Americans and individuals with disabilities. By expanding Medicare coverage to include dental benefits, this bill has the potential to improve overall health outcomes and quality of life for millions of individuals across the country.

Congressional Summary of S 2012

Medicare Dental Benefit Act of 2023

This bill provides for Medicare coverage of dental and oral health services, including routine diagnostic and preventive services, basic and major dental services, and emergency care; dental prostheses are also covered. Currently, such services are excluded from Medicare coverage.

Current Status of Bill S 2012

Bill S 2012 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since June 15, 2023. Bill S 2012 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on June 15, 2023.  Bill S 2012's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance. as of June 15, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 2012

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
10
Democrat Cosponsors
10
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 2012

Primary Policy Focus

Health

Potential Impact Areas

- Advisory bodies
- Dental care
- Emergency medical services and trauma care
- Health personnel
- Health promotion and preventive care
- Health technology, devices, supplies
- Medical research
- Medical tests and diagnostic methods
- Medicare

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 2012

Medicare Dental Benefit Act of 2023
Medicare Dental Benefit Act of 2023
A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for coverage of dental services under the Medicare program.

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