Method of payment for children's dental services by practice type and geographic location.

C. McKnight-Hanes, D. R. Myers, J. C. Dushku

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

11 Scopus citations

Abstract

The purpose of this project was to evaluate practice type and geographical differences in methods of payment accepted for children's dental services. A survey was mailed to 2000 general dentists and 1000 pediatric dentists randomly selected to provide representation from the 50 United States. Dentists were asked to specify the type of practice and the state in which they primarily practice. The survey included Medicaid, dental insurance, preferred provider organizations (PPO), and self-payment as payment options. Dentists were asked to indicate whether they never, occasionally, or frequently accepted each option of payment for children's dental services. Responses were received from 1245 (42%) dentists, including 723 general dentists and 522 pediatric dentists. Chi-square statistical analysis revealed significant practice type and regional differences in the acceptance of Medicaid for payment. Pediatric dentists accept Medicaid more frequently than general dentists (P < 0.001). Most dentists accept dental insurance and self-payment, while few indicate involvement with a PPO. The study revealed significant practice type differences only in the acceptance of Medicaid as payment for children's dental services. On a geographic basis, there were significant differences in the acceptance of Medicaid and dental insurance.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)338-341
Number of pages4
JournalPediatric dentistry
Volume14
Issue number5
StatePublished - Sep 1992

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Dentistry

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