Oral Presentation
Christine Farrell, RDH, BSDH, MPA
Oral Health Program Director
ASTDD
The Michigan Dental Program (MDP) objective is to provide oral health access to Ryan White clients. In order to improve access and utilization among RW clients, the MDP released an RFP to contract with a dental administrator. The method of contracting with a dental administrator allowed access to a broad network of dental providers for RW clients. With using the Ryan White Part D and the pharmacy rebates, we have contracted with a dental administrator. The MDP went from 200 dentists to a network of over 2000 with statewide coverage. Members are enrolled in the dental plan, they no longer have to contact the MDP office and receive an eligibility letter. Since the contract implementation in August, 2016, the MDP has shown improved results of access, utilization and the type of care provided to RW clients. Utilization rates for dental services has risen to over 50% of the MDP members. Conclusion of contracting with a dental administrator demonstrates that RW clients can achieve access to dental care and improve their viral load suppression rates.