I think eliminating the requirement for pre-authorizing routine dental work is a start. It's an unnecessary administrative burden. It doesn't occur with any other dental provider. Removing it would be a cost savings not only for the provider but also the dental office, and it would increase access to care. It's a barrier right now that has an easy fix. I think of eliminating the requirement for pre-authorizing a filling. I don't think there are too many dentists out there who are looking for more work. I spent thirteen hours yesterday working on teeth, and I'll be doing that tomorrow. There are a lot of holes out there to fill.
I can let you know right now that dentists are very ethical people. There's no requirement in any other benefits program to do that, and it's unfair to have to do it. Removing that requirement from the very beginning would eliminate having to wait four weeks to provide absolutely necessary and perhaps life-saving treatment. It would decrease the burden in the office and improve access to care.