Jun 19, 2026

Dear ADA: Downcoding

Downcoding occurs when a payer reimburses a claim using a procedure code different from the one reported by the dentist. Read More

Important Notice: New Third-Party Financing Regulations

Dec 19, 2024

Important Notice: New Third-Party Financing Regulations

As the new year approaches, we want to ensure you’re prepared for Illinois’ new regulations on third-party financing in dental practices, effective January 1, 2025. The Illinois State Dental Society (ISDS) is committed to keeping you updated with the latest information and resources to help you navigate these changes. This notice provides a clear overview of the requirements to ensure your practice is ready and compliant.

Key Regulatory Requirements

  1. Application Restrictions
    • Dentists or Dental staff may not complete third-party financing applications for patients
    • Dentists or Office personnel are prohibited from submitting financing applications
    • Practices cannot provide electronic devices for financing application completion
  2. Marketing Limitations
    • No promotion of third-party financing options while treatment is being administered, including when a patient is under anesthesia
    • Advertising restrictions apply in sensitive settings (e.g., treatment rooms where treatment is being administered)
  3. Mandatory Disclosure
    • Dental offices must provide clear disclosures to patients
    • Disclosures must specify that financing products are from third-party providers
    • The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) has issued a standardized disclosure form

Important Resources

Note: Please ensure your practice implements these changes before the effective date of January 1, 2025, to maintain compliance with state regulations.