PORTLAND, ME – AUGUST 14: Mike Dowling, a pediatric dentist in Yarmouth, flips through through book he made showing examples of some of his young patients on MaineCare at his office on Wednesday, August 14, 2025. Dowling, who treats many children on MaineCare, said there is a year-long wait list for patients who need general anesthesia. If MaineCare upped the reimbursement for the anesthesiology Dowling said they would be able to cut the wait time significantly. “There are kids right now who are living with a mouth full of abscessed teeth,” Dowling said. (Brianna Soukup/Staff Photographer)
In Maine, children are facing prolonged delays in receiving essential dental care due to a significant backlog in anesthesia services. On August 14, 2025, pediatric dentist Mike Dowling from Yarmouth highlighted the issue, revealing that many patients on MaineCare are currently on a year-long waiting list for general anesthesia. This situation leaves vulnerable children suffering from untreated dental issues.
During a visit to his practice, Dowling showcased a collection of photographs illustrating the young patients he treats, many of whom are covered by MaineCare. He emphasized the urgent need for action, stating, “There are kids right now who are living with a mouth full of abscessed teeth.” The distressing reality is that these children are enduring pain and discomfort while waiting for necessary procedures.
The root of the problem lies in the reimbursement rates set by the Department of Health and Human Services. Dowling suggested that if MaineCare were to increase the reimbursement for anesthesiology, it could significantly reduce the wait times for these essential services. He explained that the current rates do not adequately compensate anesthesiologists for their work, leading to fewer professionals willing to accept patients covered by MaineCare.
This situation is not unique to Maine, as many states face similar challenges with Medicaid reimbursement rates impacting access to dental care for low-income families. The American Dental Association has long advocated for higher reimbursement rates to ensure that children can receive prompt and effective dental treatment.
Efforts to address these concerns are critical. Parents of affected children are increasingly vocal about the need for improvements in the system. Many families are expressing frustration over the inability to secure timely appointments for their children, with some resorting to emergency care due to the worsening dental conditions.
Given the serious implications for children’s health and well-being, stakeholders are urging the Department of Health and Human Services to take immediate action. Increasing reimbursement rates is seen as a necessary step to improve access to care and reduce the backlog of patients in need of anesthesia.
As this issue unfolds, the health of Maine’s children hangs in the balance. The call for reform is not just about numbers; it is about ensuring that all children have the opportunity for quality dental care, free from the burden of long wait times and untreated health issues.
