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Medicaid cuts threaten pediatric dental care


The Oregonian reports on how Dr. Tesha Waggoner's pediatric dental practice in Portland is facing significant challenges due to cuts in Medicaid reimbursement rates. The cuts will affect about 40% of her patients, resulting in a loss of approximately $46,000 over two months. Waggoner says she aims to provide a "dental home" for children regardless of income. The Oregon Health Authority has identified low Medicaid reimbursement rates as a primary reason why many dentists do not accept Oregon Health Plan patients. Currently, only 28.3% of the typical fees are covered, leading to a lack of access to dental care for many children. Dr. Hai Pham noted that the financial strain of accepting Medicaid patients is forcing many dentists to limit their services.