Physicians Dissatisfied with Current Referral Process to Dentists

In a changing health care environment, the role of dentistry is still being defined. Since the inception of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in March 2010, comprehensive dental care and guidelines for medical-to-dental referrals have yet to be included. With the exception of pediatric dental care, dental services are not a component of the Affordable Care Act. Title III of the ACA declares the act’s ability to “improve the quality and efficiency of health care,”1 yet no plan exists for the coordination of medical and dental services. Additionally, Title IV, “Prevention of Chronic Disease and Improving Public Health,” addresses the evaluation of community-based prevention programs for Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries, but without mention of dental services for this population and other adults. This lack of guidelines for dental referrals and dental coverage leads to delays in the diagnosis of oral lesions. It also results in excess health care expenditures when referrals are made to physician specialists instead of dentists and dental specialists. Research Brief