New Provider Relief Fund Program Announced for Dentists

Note: This article was originally published on July 15, 2020 and last updated on July 21, 2021 after HHS extended the application deadline from July 24 to August 3.

On July 10, the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) announced a new program through the Provider Relief Fund specifically for dentists. Eligible dentists must apply by August 3 (the original deadline was July 24).

To be eligible, dentists must meet six criteria:

1. Must not have received payment from the $50 billion General Distribution
2. Must not have received payment from the Medicaid and CHIP Distribution
3. Must have filed a federal tax return for 2017, 2018 or 2019
4. Must have provided dental services after January 31, 2020
5. Must not have permanently ceased providing care
6. If the applicant is an individual, must have receipts for providing dental services on Form 1040, Schedule C, Line 1

HHS has created the list of eligible providers from “third-party” sources. The FAQs acknowledge that the list may not be complete and provide a method for providers who are not on the initial list to continue their application.

Similar to the General Distribution, payments will be based on 2% of revenues for the most recent tax filing. Providers must also sign the terms and conditions that can be found on the HHS website.

For questions or assistance, contact our health care industry experts.