AAE Supports ODC Effort to Strengthen Transparency in Dental Benefits Contracting

The American Association of Endodontists (AAE), as part of the Organized Dentistry Coalition (ODC), has joined leading dental organizations in supporting proposed amendments to the Transparency in Dental Benefits Contracting Model Act under review by the National Council of Insurance Legislators (NCOIL). The amendments, sponsored by Sen. Justin Boyd (AR) and Asm. Jarett Gandolfo (NY), are designed to reduce administrative burdens, protect provider choice, and improve patient access to care.

The Model Act, first adopted in 2020, was intended to simplify and clarify network leasing and claim payment practices in dentistry. However, as insurers adapted to the law, new complications emerged that shifted costs and administrative pressures on endodontists and patients. NCOIL’s five-year review provides an opportunity to refine the law to reflect its original intent better.

Key amendments would change default insurer practices from “opt-out” to “opt-in” for both network leasing and virtual credit card payments, require written transparency in communications, and ensure that endodontists’ payment elections remain clear and enforceable. These updates directly address insurer practices that too often restrict provider payments, confuse patients and hinder practice operations.

For endodontists, the proposed revisions will cut down on confusing and unnecessary administrative hurdles, giving them more time to concentrate on treating patients. For patients, the changes promote stronger accountability from insurers and greater clarity in their coverage, helping ensure access to the care they need. By supporting these amendments through the ODC, the AAE underscores its commitment to advancing transparency in dental benefits and protecting endodontists’ ability to provide high-quality, patient-centered care.