AN ACT RELATING TO INSURANCE -- ACCIDENT AND SICKNESS INSURANCE POLICIES-DENTAL INSURANCE COVERAGE

HB 7722 requires health insurers to pay dental benefits directly to non-contracted dentists when patients request it, provided the dentist meets the insurer’s credentialing standards. Insurers must pay at least the highest rate they pay to contracted dentists for the same service, with no more than a 5% reduction allowed. This applies to standard dental insurance policies but excludes hospital indemnity, Medicare supplements, and other limited benefit plans. The bill gives patients more choice in dental providers without insurers unfairly reducing payments based on non-participation.