Effective December 1, the Louisiana Medicaid program is now reimbursing physicians for applying fluoride varnish twice each year to the teeth of Medicaid recipients between the ages of 6 months and 5 years.
Previously, Medicaid only covered this service when performed by a dental provider, according to the state Department of Health and Hospitals.
With the implementation of the updated fluoridation varnish policy, physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, registered nurses, and licensed practical nurses will now be reimbursed for applying fluoride varnish.
The ADA and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend fluoride varnish application at least twice per year for children at moderate or high risk of developing cavities.
