GAO Releases Report on Dental Services in CHIP, Medicaid

The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report today on dental services in Medicaid and the Children's Health insurance Program (CHIP). This report, which was mandated by the Children's Health Insurance Program Reauthorization Act (CHIPRA) of 2009, examined dentist participation in Medicaid and (CHIP) as well as efforts by the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) to help families find participating dentists and improve access to underserved areas. Additionally, the report examines how mid-level dental providers have been used to improve children's access to care.

The GAO report recommends improvements to the Insure Kids Now website, including a verification process for information posted on the website, alternative sources for the information on the site, and a verification process for states' lists of participating dentists. The report also recommends a strengthening of CMS oversight of Medicaid and CHIP dental services provided by dental managed care programs through improved data collection.

Click here to read the GAO summary and full report.