Medicaid cuts threaten pediatric dental care

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The Oregonian reports on how Dr. Tesha Waggoner's pediatric dental practice in Portland is facing significant challenges due to cuts in Medicaid reimbursement rates. The cuts will affect about 40% of her patients, resulting in a loss of approximately $46,000 over two months. Waggoner says she aims to provide a "dental home" for children regardless of income. The Oregon Health Authority has identified low Medicaid reimbursement rates as a primary reason why many dentists do not accept Oregon Health Plan patients. Currently, only 28.3% of the typical fees are covered, leading to a lack of access to dental care for many children. Dr. Hai Pham noted that the financial strain of accepting Medicaid patients is forcing many dentists to limit their services.