Pediatric Dentists' Attitudes, Perceptions, and Experience with the Affordable Care Act.

PURPOSE: Pediatric oral health benefits were designated as one of 10 Essential Health Benefits (EHB) in the Affordable Care Act. Although it provided coverage for many children, several issues prevent its success. The purpose of this study was to document experience with, attitudes toward, and perceptions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) among pediatric dentists.

METHODS: The study was conducted using a survey consisting of nine multiple choice questions and one open-ended item and was distributed electronically in November 2015 to active and life members of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

RESULTS: Respondents reported patients deferring treatment due to high out-of-pocket costs. Providers perceive that patients do not have enough information to understand their benefits. Providers reported not having enough information to understand how these benefits affect their practices.

CONCLUSIONS: Pediatric dentists report deferral of both preventive and restorative care due to high out-of-pocket costs. Pediatric dentists do not feel they have adequate information regarding the Affordable Care Act and its effect on their practices. The majority of pediatric dentists believe that parents have difficulty understanding their children's benefits.