HI HB787

Appropriates funds from general revenues to restore diagnostic, preventive, and restorative dental benefits to adult Medicaid enrollees for fiscal years 2019-2020 and 2020-2021, with the Department of Human Services required to obtain maximum available federal matching funds.

Addresses the health disparities and access issues affecting low-income populations, particularly in rural and neighbor island communities, by expanding Medicaid dental coverage beyond current emergency-only benefits.

Cites evidence that expanded dental benefits increase utilization of dental services by 42 percent and can reduce emergency room visits for dental problems, which cost Hawaii over $6.6 million in 2016 with Medicaid recipients comprising more than half of such visits.

Notes that Hawaii is one of only 13 states limiting adult Medicaid dental coverage to pain relief and emergency care, and that comprehensive dental coverage is associated with improved overall health outcomes and reduced chronic disease risks.

Takes effect on July 1, 2019.