Trends in the Provision of Oral Health Services by FQHCs

Federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) are increasingly providing oral health services directly to patients in fixed clinics and mobile and portable oral health programs. However, some continue to offer only referrals or vouchers for services from community dentists. This study examined factors that might impact the decision of an FQHC to provide oral health services directly, including state Medicaid and reimbursement policies for oral health. The study used a variety of data sources including HRSA’s Uniform Data System and primary data.