Bill > S0234

This bill establishes a joint local and state initiative to create "dental care access accounts" for dentists who practice in underserved areas or serve underserved populations, aiming to improve oral health and economic development. The Department of Health (DOH) will oversee this program, which defines "dental health professional shortage areas" and "medically underserved areas" as those designated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Dentists can qualify by working for a public health program in these areas or by committing to opening a private practice there, which involves residing in the area, having a Medicaid provider agreement, and investing in their practice. The DOH will establish these accounts, with a limit of 10 new accounts per fiscal year, and will use an electronic benefit transfer system for fund distribution. Funds in these accounts can be used for student loan repayment, practice setup (property, equipment), or approved relocation expenses. State funds will be awarded to these accounts, with a maximum of $100,000 and a minimum of $10,000 per award, and these state awards cannot exceed three times the amount of local contributions. The bill also outlines conditions for closing accounts, including the dentist leaving the designated area or program, and specifies that any remaining state funds can be reallocated, while unspent local funds will be returned to the donor. Dentists who misuse funds or fail to meet program requirements will have to repay the money. The DOH will create rules for applications, verification of fund usage, and will work with other agencies and dental organizations to promote the initiative and rank areas based on their need for dental care access. Finally, the DOH will report annually on the program's impact, including patient numbers, Medicaid recipients served, and financial details.