Let’s get this out of the way: accepting Medicaid doesn’t have to be complicated, overwhelming, or unprofitable. Yet for many dental professionals in Kansas, that’s the perception, and it’s costing communities access to critical care.

With the launch of Pathways to Oral Health, Kansas dentists now have the tools, support, and one-on-one guidance they need to confidently say “yes” to KanCare, the state’s Medicaid program.

Below, we break down the most common myths about serving KanCare patients and show how the Pathways initiative, and its Dental Medicaid Facilitator, makes participation easier and more sustainable than ever.

Myth #1: “KanCare billing is too complicated.”

Fact: You don’t have to figure it out alone.

Pathways to Oral Health includes direct access to a KanCare Concierge, a Dental Medicaid Facilitator team who works with providers to help them enroll, bill, and troubleshoot any issues. The process is clear, guided, and entirely personalized.

“Our concierge model means dentists don’t have to navigate bureaucracy by themselves,” says Monica Turner, one of the program’s facilitator. “We support every step, from credentialing to claims.”

Myth #2: “KanCare doesn’t reimburse enough to make it worthwhile.”

Fact: With the right workflows and support, providers can serve Medicaid patients sustainably.

Many dentists assume reimbursement will never match effort—but the Pathways initiative is working to change that through legislative advocacy and shared best practices. In fact, on July 1, 2025, a Medicaid dental rate increase went into effect. Oral Health Kansas is currently working on a trying to increase rates even further. More importantly, participating providers report increased patient loyalty, improved community reputation, and the satisfaction of serving those who need care most.

“These patients are part of your community,” said Dr. Nick Rogers, a Kansas general dentist who accepts KanCare. “They’re the kids you see at school events, the neighbors you run into at the grocery store. Saying yes to them is saying yes to your community.”

Myth #3: “It takes too much time to serve KanCare patients.”

Fact: With preparation and the right tools, visits are efficient and rewarding.

The initiative’s My Dental Care Passport helps streamline care by equipping patients (and caregivers) to share essential needs such as communication preferences or sensory sensitivities, before the appointment begins. That means less time adapting in the moment and more time providing care.

“The Passport saves time and helps providers feel more confident serving individuals with disabilities,” Turner notes. “It reduces uncertainty and builds trust quickly.”

Myth #4: “It’s not worth the extra effort to treat patients with special needs.”

Fact: These patients are underserved and deserving, and you already have many of the skills needed.

Treating individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities may require accommodations, but many of the same behavior management techniques used with children work just as well. With resources, training modules, and peer support through Pathways to Oral Health, providers don’t have to go it alone.

Plus, every provider has a role to play in breaking down stigma and ensuring everyone receives equitable care.

KanCare Participation Made Simple

If you’ve been hesitant to accept KanCare patients or felt unsure of how to start, now’s the time.

Pathways to Oral Health offers:

• A dedicated Dental Medicaid Facilitator to support enrollment and billing
• Free tools like the My Dental Care Passport to streamline patient communication
• Training resources to help build inclusive, confident care practices
• Advocacy efforts focused on improving Medicaid policy and reimbursement

Make an Impact Where It Matters

Oral health is essential health. And for the thousands of Kansans with disabilities who rely on KanCare, access to a dentist who is prepared and willing to say “yes” makes all the difference.

Be that provider.

Learn more and get started at www.PathwaysToOralHealth.org