New law seeks to improve access to dental care in USA
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- Published: Tuesday, 22 January 2019 07:46
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The American Dental Association (ADA) has applauded USA Congress for passing the Action for Dental Health Act. For years, dentists have worked to improve access to oral health care for underserved Americans and have championed this patient-benefiting legislation. “This is a tremendous victory for dentistry and patients everywhere,” said Jeffrey M. Cole, ADA president.
The Action for Dental Health Act supports nationwide efforts to improve the dental health of underserved populations and will promote programs that deliver care more easily to those without it, while bringing education and disease prevention to communities in need. “The Action for Dental Health initiative shows that our profession believes all Americans deserve good dental health. The ADA is pleased to see Congress prioritizing legislation that will improve access to oral health care,” said Jeffrey M. Cole, ADA president.
This bipartisan legislation will help improve essential oral and dental health services to these underserved communities. The Action for Dental Health Act targets federal funding to provide dental care to vulnerable populations, especially children, seniors and those living in rural, urban and Native American communities.
The legislation originally passed the US House of Representatives in February with 90% of members voting in favour. A slightly amended version was introduced in the US Senate and passed in October 2018. The ADA commends and thanks the co-sponsors of this bill who helped recognise the need to make oral health care a priority. President Trump signed the Action for Dental Health Act into law on Dec. 11.
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