19 September 2023

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Dentists report insurance reimbursement rates decreased: ADA research

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Dentists report that dental insurance reimbursement rates have decreased over a span of 12 months, according to the August Economic Outlook and Emerging Issues in Dentistry poll from the ADA Health Policy Institute (HPI). 

In August 2022, some 26 percent reported that insurance reimbursement rates had decreased at some point in the previous 12 months. In August 2023, 35 percent of dentists indicated decreased reimbursement rates. 

According to the poll:

• Dentists' confidence in their dental practice and the dental care sector declined slightly in August 2023. Confidence levels remain below a high point in 2021.
• Dentists' appointment schedules were 87% full in August 2023, a figure that has been steady throughout the year.
• Patient no-shows and late cancellations remained the most common factor for unfilled practice schedules in August 2023.
• Short-notice cancellation was selected by about 8 in 10 dentists as a reason why their practice schedules are not full.
• In August 2023, average appointment wait times for new patients and patients of record went down slightly compared to July 2023.
• More than one-third of dentists continue to report they are actively recruiting dental hygienists and assistants.

Read more on the ADA's website: https://www.ada.org/resources/research/health-policy-institute/economic-outlook-and-emerging-issues