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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…

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…

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…

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…

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.…

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…

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…

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…

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…

August 12-18 marks National Health Center Week, and Oral Health Watch is focusing this week’s blog on the vital role community health centers (CHCs) play in reducing health disparities and providing access to high-quality, culturally appropriate care for underserved communities. CHCs are community-based and patient-directed primary care organizations whose mission is to serve populations with…