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New York: Enhancing patient care with dental HEDIS measures OED and TFC

Q2 Word of Mouth newsletter 2025

When the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) retired the Annual Dental Visit (ADV) measure in 2023, 2 new HEDIS® dental measures were introduced to enhance preventive dental care and ensure patients receive the necessary services to maintain optimal oral health.

 

Understanding HEDIS dental measures

Oral Evaluation, Dental Services (OED): This measure assesses the percentage of Medicaid members under age 21 who received a comprehensive or periodic oral evaluation with a dental provider during the measurement year.

Topical Fluoride for Children (TFC): This measure evaluates the percentage of Medicaid members ages 1–4 who received at least 2 topical fluoride applications during the measurement year.

 

Why these measures matter

  • Promote preventive care: Regular oral evaluations and fluoride treatments are essential in preventing dental issues such as cavities and gum disease, especially in children and adolescents.
  • Improve health outcomes: Early detection through routine evaluations can lead to timely interventions, reducing the risk of more severe health problems.
  • Enhance patient engagement: Encouraging regular dental visits fosters a proactive approach to oral health, leading to better long-term outcomes for patients.

 

Strategies to meet OED and TFC measures

To support your practice in meeting these measures, consider implementing the following strategies:

  • Proactive scheduling: Use your patient management system to identify members due for evaluations or fluoride treatments. Send reminders through calls, texts or emails to encourage scheduling appointments.
  • Patient education: Educate patients and caregivers about the importance of regular dental check-ups and fluoride treatments in maintaining oral health. Provide informational materials and discuss these topics during visits.
  • Streamlined services: During appointments, assess if the patient is due for a fluoride treatment and provide it during the same visit to maximize care efficiency.
  • Community outreach: Engage with local schools and community centers to offer educational sessions or preventive services, increasing access to care for underserved populations.
  • Team training: Ensure all staff members are informed about the new measures and understand their roles in achieving these goals. Regular training sessions can help maintain a high standard of care.

 

Commitment to quality care

Your dedication to providing high-quality dental care to our Healthplex community is crucial in achieving these objectives. Thank you for your continued commitment to excellence in dental care. Together, we can make a significant impact on the oral health of our members.

 

Additional information

HEDIS® is a registered trademark of the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA).

PCA-1-24-00601-DHV-EM