Preserving adult dental, funding for health equity programs top legislative priorities
Oral Health Watch firmly believes that oral health is health and that dental coverage is health coverage. That is why we continue to work with partners and health advocates to champion programs that promote oral health care access and reduce dental health disparities. As Washington lawmakers continue with the first-ever 105-day virtual legislative session, OHW…
COVID-19, economic recovery, racial justice will be focus of 2021 Legislative Session
The global COVID-19 pandemic continues to significantly impact Washington state and beyond into the new year. And the 2021 legislative session, which began on January 11th, is no exception. This year’s session will be unlike any in history as social distancing and coronavirus-related restrictions have forced lawmakers to operate remotely. Leadership from both chambers announced…
Opportunities to Improve the Medicaid Dental Program
By: Diane Oakes, President & CEO of Arcora Foundation When our state legislators passed the 2019–2021 Operating Budget in the final days of the session, they included a proviso directing the Health Care Authority (HCA) to stop moving forward with the planned implementation of Medicaid dental managed care, to continue directly administering the program under…
Apple Health dental program investments good policy, the right thing to do
Oral Health Watch and the nearly two million Washington residents with Apple Health (Medicaid) dental coverage need your support. While the House and Governor’s budgets include an increase for the Apple Health dental program, the Senate budget represents a cut of more than $19M in total funds ($7.8M in state funds) from the program. The…
Expanding dental care access is a top priority during 2019 legislative session
Oral Health Watch believes every person should enjoy the benefits of good oral health and that no one should be burdened by painful cavities and untreated oral disease. As Washington lawmakers return to Olympia for a 105-day legislative session this week, OHW would like to share some of the legislative priorities of oral health advocates.…
Making progress toward improved oral health care access
Oral health care advocates had a good deal to cheer about in 2018 as both Washington state and the federal government signed into law legislation aimed at expanding dental care access for underserved populations. This year began with a short Washington state legislative session that yielded multiple oral health care access gains, including the Legislature’s…
Open Enrollment Ends Dec. 15th
Washington residents seeking health care coverage for 2019 on the Washington Health Benefit Exchange have until Saturday, December 15thbefore the open enrollment period ends. Enrollment for Apple Health, our state’s Medicaid program, is available year-round for individuals and families that qualify for free or low-cost health coverage. The number of people signing up for care in…
Make your voice heard for immigrant families
By Litonya Lester, Health Policy Director and Sarah Domondon, Policy and Advocacy Associate at Children’s Alliance Immigrant families shouldn’t have to choose between getting dental care and their stability in the U.S. But the White House’s current proposed rule on public charge have many wondering if accessing vital services will put them at risk. Luckily…
How Washington’s policies impact access to school sealant programs
Dental sealants, protective coatings that cover the grooves found on the surface of molars, are a proven-successful tool for preventing tooth decay. School sealant programs are one of the most effective ways to reach children who might not otherwise receive oral health care and prevent painful cavities. But a recent Pew Charitable Trusts report finds that too…
Oral Health Watch
4 hours ago
#DYK in addition to helping Washington residents connect with dental care in their community, DentistLink can help you access additional resources like transportation, childcare and interpretation services? #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
21 hours ago
Drinking fluoridated tap water instead of bottled water is a more affordable and more environmentally friendly way to stay hydrated and quench thirst. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
Drinking fluoridated tap water instead of bottled water is a more affordable and more environmentally friendly way to stay hydrated and quench thirst. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 days ago
Remain hydrated during those hot, summer days with water instead of sweetened sodas, fruity punches, and sports and energy drinks. Check out these tips to help encourage family and loved ones to opt for sugar free (and ideally fluoridated) water to beat the heat. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 days ago
Remain hydrated during those hot, summer days with water instead of sweetened sodas, fruity punches, and sports and energy drinks. Check out these tips to help encourage family and loved ones to opt for sugar free (and ideally fluoridated) water to beat the heat. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
Cavities don't have to be a part of growing up. With water fluoridation, brushing with fluoride toothpaste, avoiding sweets, and access to oral health care, kids - and adults - can live cavity-free. #teethmatter