Sen. Barbara A. Favola
(D-VA) has filed S.J.R. 240.
The resolution directs the Joint Commission on Health Care
(JCHC) to study older Virginians’ access to dental care. In conducting the
study, the JCHC must consider and make recommendations regarding the following:
- Enhancing
efforts to educate Virginians, especially older adults, about oral health,
including the connection between oral health and heart health.
- Improving
the availability of routine and preventive dental procedures for older adults
in long-term care settings.
- Expanding
free and low-cost community dental clinic opportunities for older adults.
- Providing
dental services for adult Medicaid beneficiaries.
- Identifying
funding sources and service options to address the gaps that older Virginians
face in accessing dental care.
According to the bill text as filed, the
JCHC must complete its meetings by Nov. 30, 2015, and submit an executive
summary of its findings and recommendations no later than the first day of the
2016 Regular Session of the General Assembly.