Nevada law expands dental rights in health care review processes

Nevada's Assembly Bill 202, introduced on April 21, 2025, aims to enhance the rights of dental patients and their providers within the state's healthcare system. The bill seeks to address gaps in the current external review process for adverse determinations made by health carriers regarding dental services.

One of the key provisions of AB202 is the inclusion of dentists in the external review process, granting them the same rights and responsibilities as physicians. This means that when a patient’s dental treatment is denied, their dentist can now participate actively in the review process, ensuring that their professional recommendations are considered alongside those of the patient's physician. This change is expected to improve communication between dentists and health carriers, potentially leading to more favorable outcomes for patients.

Additionally, the bill mandates that independent review organizations notify dentists of covered patients about the outcomes of external reviews, a step that was previously overlooked. This notification requirement aims to keep dentists informed and involved in their patients' care decisions, thereby fostering a more collaborative healthcare environment.

The bill also revises the definition of "clinical peer" to include dentists, thereby extending legal protections to them during the review process. This change is significant as it acknowledges the critical role dentists play in patient care and decision-making.

While AB202 has garnered support from dental professionals who argue that it will lead to better patient care and more equitable treatment in the healthcare system, it has faced some opposition. Critics express concerns about the potential for increased administrative burdens on health carriers and the possibility of more disputes arising from the expanded role of dentists in the review process.

The implications of this bill are substantial, as it not only empowers dental professionals but also aims to improve patient outcomes in Nevada's healthcare landscape. If passed, AB202 could set a precedent for similar legislative efforts in other states, highlighting the importance of integrating dental care into broader health policy discussions.

As the legislative session progresses, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the bill's journey, anticipating its potential impact on both the dental profession and patient care in Nevada.