Low reimbursement rates, high retirement driving dentist shortage in Rhode Island

The nation is experiencing a growing shortage of dentists, particularly in Rhode Island, which is impacting patients’ access to care.

To improve the situation, dentists are supporting the Rhode Island Fair Share for Dental Care Act, a Medical Loss Ratio bill that would force insurers to spend more money on patient care instead of marketing, executive salaries and other costs not directly related to patients.

The shortage is exacerbated by an aging workforce, with a significant percentage of dentists nearing retirement age. According to Rhode Island Dental Association President Fred Hartman, D.M.D., about 45% of the state's dentists are age 55 and older. 

One major factor contributing to the shortage is the low reimbursement rates from insurance companies, which make it financially challenging for dentists to maintain their practices. As a result, patients often face high out-of-pocket costs or are forced to forgo necessary dental care. 

Read more: Providence Journal

The article presented here is intended to inform you about the broader media perspective on dentistry, regardless of its alignment with the ADA's stance. It is important to note that publication of an article does not imply the ADA's endorsement, agreement, or promotion of its content.