Government Relations
Non-Compete Clause in Provider Contracts Rep . Torren Ecker introduced HB 2636 , which prohibits noncompete clauses in employment contracts between health care providers and allows them to notify patients when they are transitioning to a new practice . HB 2636 was referred to the House Health Committee in September , where it did not receive any consideration , but PDA expects that it will be introduced again next session .
PDA ’ s Government Relations Committee is carefully weighing the needs of all members and considering the impact this legislation would have on all dentists depending on the stage of their career . PDA will take a position and be prepared to offer amendments to this legislation should it gain traction next session .
Teledentistry In light of COVID-related restrictions , the dialogue about telemedicine and teledentistry services featured more prominently at the state Capitol . At least two bills would have further defined and regulated remote dentistry services , but neither of them passed this session :
Sen . Elder Vogel introduced SB 857 , which encompassed medical and dental services , defined what constituted telehealth and acceptable technology and provided for insurance coverage . The General Assembly did pass SB 857 early 2020 , but it was vetoed by Governor Wolf . Rep . Tom Murt introduced similar legislation that was specific to dentistry , but the committee to which it was assigned did not consider HB 2645 before session ended .
PDA expects telehealth services to be a hot button issue next session due to a realization that the expansion of services provided remotely due to COVID-19 could continue indefinitely and save on health care costs overall .
Surprise Balance Billing Rep . Tina Pickett introduced the “ Surprise Balance Bill Protection Act ” to help protect patients from being “ surprised ” by an unexpected bill after they are treated by a non-participating provider . HB 1862 attempts to rectify the problem experienced by many patients who are treated in a hospital or other setting in which they have no control over whether the facility and / or provider is in-network .
8 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2020 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL