ADA files amicus brief in Medicaid Supreme Court case
What's the issue?
The American Dental Association (ADA) filed an amicus brief in the upcoming Supreme Court case, Armstrong v. Exceptional Child Center Inc. An amicus brief is a document filed by an organization not directly involved in the case, but has an interest in the outcome of the case.
The ADA is among six other health professional associations that signed the brief to assert the right to sue the government to enforce federal Medicaid law in the states.
Some states, like California, have very low Medicaid reimbursement rates which makes it difficult to ensure there are enough providers to serve all populations in need.
This case could determine if Medicaid providers have the right to sue the government based on a state failing to provide the resources necessary to ensure equal access to care as mandated in the Medicaid Act. Currently the only means of enforcing equal access to care is revocation of funding.
Why is this important?
Private enforcement of equal access to care could lead to higher Medicaid reimbursement rates. This has the potential to increase the number of dentists who would accept Medicaid patients.
Whether you open up your own practice, work at a community health center or work as an associate, it is important to be aware of new decisions that could allow you to provide care to the underserved.
Next Step:
Read more about the amicus brief.
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