TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) — Kansas has approved a major increase in Medicaid dental reimbursement rates for the first time in more than 25 years, with the new rates taking effect on July 1.
The Kansas Legislature allocated $10 million to support the rate increase, aiming to strengthen the dental provider network and expand access to care for Medicaid patients. Although the updated rates still fall short of matching commercial insurance reimbursement, advocates say the move is a crucial step forward.
“This increase is the result of strong collaboration across Kansas’ dental and public health communities,” said Tanya Dorf Brunner, executive director of Oral Health Kansas. “It’s a foundation we can build on as we continue working toward long-term solutions that make quality dental care accessible to every Kansan.”
More than 50 dental practices and organizations across the state joined efforts this year to push for greater investment in Medicaid dental services.
A joint survey by Oral Health Kansas and the Kansas Dental Association, which collected feedback from over 75 dental providers, helped determine which services should be prioritized. The following increases have been implemented:
Exams: up by 50%
Cleanings, scaling, and root planing: up by 35%
X-rays and composite fillings: up by 20%
All other services: up by 10%
“This increase sends a strong message that Kansas values its dental providers and is committed to improving access to care,” said Kevin Robertson, executive director of the Kansas Dental Association. “We’re proud to have worked with so many dedicated partners to help make it happen.”
Currently, only about 30% of dentists in Kansas participate in Medicaid. State officials hope the targeted rate increases, along with support from initiatives like Pathways to Oral Health, will encourage more providers to join or remain in the program.
“Every rate matters,” said Dorf Brunner. “Our approach is about honoring all the services providers deliver, while giving extra weight to the ones that are most critical for building sustainable, preventive care.”
The Pathways to Oral Health initiative supports this effort by offering tools to improve care for Kansans with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Backed by KDHE and all three KanCare managed care organizations, the program includes resources like the customizable My Dental Care Passport and one-on-one Medicaid support for dental offices.
These efforts aim to reduce barriers, support dental professionals, and create more inclusive, person-centered care across the state.
