Episode 14 – 20 YEARS OF GROWTH AND INNOVATION: THE EVOLUTION OF VIRGINIA'S MEDICAID DENTAL PROGRAM

In this episode, we are joined by VDA Member, Dr. Zachary Hairston, who serves as the Dental Consultant for Virginia's Cardinal Care Smiles Dental Program, and Justin Gist, Dental Program Manager at the Virginia Department of Medicaid Assistance Services. They discuss the 20-year evolution of Virginia's Medicaid dental services, from its initial focus on pediatric care to the recent inclusion of pregnant members and adult comprehensive dental benefits. The conversation covers the impact of these changes, the challenges faced by providers, and the initiatives undertaken to ease those challenges, including fee adjustments, administrative streamlining, and the importance of patient education. They also emphasize the vital role of the Dental Advisory Committee in shaping the program and the need for ongoing advocacy and participation from dental professionals to ensure the program's continued success.