Peace Garden News

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Joe Manchin (D-WV) reintroduced their bipartisan Dental and Optometric Care (DOC) Access Act. This legislation would allow dentists, optometrists, and ophthalmologists to use the medical labs of their choosing, and provide doctors, patients, and insurers clarity on rates for non-covered dental and vision care.

“Our doctors need more autonomy within our healthcare system, whether it’s selecting the best materials and lab services for their patient, or by increasing fairness in doctor-insurer agreements,” said Senator Cramer. “Our bipartisan legislation looks to protect consumers and allow doctors to provide high-quality care to their patients.”

“Every West Virginian and American deserves access to quality, affordable healthcare, including dental and vision care. Our bipartisan DOC Access Act would help put healthcare choices in the hands of patients and doctors themselves, instead of insurance companies. This legislation would provide more options and expand access to patient care, while also allowing for more flexibility in treatment options for doctors, especially those operating their own practices as small businesses. Similar laws already exist in 44 states, including West Virginia, and the DOC Access Act would apply these laws to federally regulated dental and vision plans. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this bipartisan, commonsense legislation to give patients and doctors greater control over their healthcare decisions,” said Senator Manchin.

Click here for bill text.

Original source can be found here.