A bill has been introduced in California that would prevent private equity groups and hedge funds from interfering with the healthcare decisions of dentists.
Senate Bill 351 would block groups and funds from exercising power over dentists over specific actions, including decisions involving coding and billing procedures for patient care services.
Private equity groups and hedge funds would be prohibited from entering into agreements with dental practices that give the outside firm authority to make healthcare and patient care decisions.
Contracts between dental practices, private equity firms or hedge funds that include any clause that stops providers from expressing their opinion on issues related to quality of care, utilization of care, ethical or professional challenges would be rendered void and unenforceable.
State Sen. Christopher Cabaldon introduced the bill.