In the context of healthcare, understanding the billing procedures for government-funded insurance programs like Medicaid is crucial for both healthcare providers and patients. Medicaid, a joint federal and state program, provides health coverage to low-income individuals and families. When it comes to dental care, dentists must follow specific guidelines regarding billing practices for Medicaid patients.
Typically, dentists do not bill Medicaid ahead of procedures. Instead, they follow a process of billing after the services have been rendered to the patient. This practice aligns with the fee-for-service payment model commonly used in healthcare, where providers are reimbursed for the specific services they provide to patients.
