3 things you missed in government this week

Information blocking, defense funding, Medicare

 “Three Things You Missed in Government This Week” is designed to offer a way to stay informed on the topics of the week. These updates are meant to offer brief details on legislative or regulatory topics to keep dentists engaged and up to date. To explore the ADA’s latest advocacy efforts, more information is available at ADA.org/Advocacy.

1.    The U.S. House of Representatives passed its version of the fiscal year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, which includes several dental-related provisions supported by the ADA. The act sets funding parameters for defense-related spending and implements military policy for the Department of Defense and related agencies.

2.    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced that it plans to “crack down” on information blocking. The 21st Century Cures Act of 2016 prohibits information blocking, which consists of practices that are likely to interfere with the access, exchange or use of electronic health information, except as required by law or covered by an exception.

3.    The ADA is asking the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to maintain the current scope of dental services under Medicare but is pushing for significant improvements in how those services are reimbursed and coordinated. In a letter the ADA noted CMS’ decision not to expand the list of qualifying medical conditions that make dental services eligible for Medicare coverage