HARTFORD — Connecticut dentists are balking at Gov. Dannel P. Malloy’s proposal to scale back the state’s reimbursement rate for dentistry services, saying eight years of efforts to expand access to dental care for needy children will be put at risk.
The Democratic governor proposed a 10 percent cut in the reimbursement for children’s dental services provided under the state’s HUSKY health insurance program. It was included in the revised, $19.7 billion budget plan he released Tuesday to help cover a projected $922 million deficit.
The Connecticut State Dental Association contends any reduction will discourage dentists from serving poor residents.
Malloy’s proposed reduction is projected to save the state $5.3 million in the new fiscal year beginning July 1. A Department of Social Services spokesman said the administration does not believe the reduction will affect patient access to services.
