Pediatric dentists' participation in the North Carolina Medicaid program

Data on Medicaid participation by dentists in North Carolina were obtained from the North Carolina Division of Medical Assistance and through a survey of pediatric dentists. As a group, pediatric dentists were the most active participants in the North Carolina Medicaid program during the 1990-91 state fiscal year and provided a disproportionate share of treatment for Medicaid-eligible children. Seventy-five per cent of the pediatric dentists limit their Medicaid participation. Top reasons given for limiting access for new Medicaid patients included low reimbursement rates, broken or canceled appointments, and need for prior authorization of Medicaid treatment plans. This paper explores several critical issues regarding access to dental care for children served by the Medicaid program in North Carolina.