After a marathon of negotiations a supplemental budget was approved by the state legislature on Wednesday. The good news is that the budget protects dental coverage for low-income pregnant women, seniors in nursing homes and people with developmental disabilities.
This decision by the legislature to support funding for dental coverage reflects in part an increased understanding that oral health is an essential part of overall health and that dental disease prevention saves money for families, businesses and taxpayers.
The final budget also maintained funding for Community Health Centers, the Basic Health Plan and local public health jurisdictions. All of these programs provide services that benefit the oral health of low-income people.
Finally, the budget protects the health of families and children in Washington by maintaining funding for:
- The Volunteer/Retired Provider Program that provides malpractice insurance for thousands of dentists, hygienists and other healthcare workers who volunteer.
- Apple Health for Kids – provides health coverage (including dental coverage) to all children up to 300 percent of the federal poverty level.
- Maternity support services
Funding for enrollment assistance to ensure eligible children are connected with Apple Health also was included in the budget.
Thanks to everyone who supports efforts to protect the oral health of vulnerable people, including pregnant women and children. Your commitment to oral health improves lives.
Oral Health Watch
11 hours ago
Family schedules tend to be less structured as routines shift away from fixed wake-up times, school, and homework requirements. But don't forget to ensure ample time to maintain a good oral health routine. This includes regular brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing and hydrating with ...water (fluoridated is best) instead of sugary drinks. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
#DYK tooth decay is largely preventable? Proven-effective strategies like access to regular dental visits, brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily, and community water fluoridation can help kids and adults avoid the physical discomfort and burdensome cost of cavities. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
#DYK tooth decay is largely preventable? Proven-effective strategies like access to regular dental visits, brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily, and community water fluoridation can help kids and adults avoid the physical discomfort and burdensome cost of cavities. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
Thank you, Arcora Foundation, Delta Dental of Washington, Seattle Children's, and caring volunteer providers for making the SmileMobile possible. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
💯 Arcora Foundation. Oral health care needs don't go away just because coverage does. The estimated 250,000 Washingtonians in need of dental care to either pay out of pocket, delay preventive care and/or forego necessary dental treatment, leading to:
🤒 Needless pain and suffering
... 💵 Burdening patients with costly care
🏥 Straining hospital emergency departments and our health care system
💪 Compromising individual and community health
#teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 days ago
Is it important for both parents and kids to have access to preventive oral health care? 💯 Parents who model good oral health habits make it more likely for children to adopt these practices from a young age. This proactive approach can help prevent future dental problems, missed school days due... to pain, and potential long-term health issues. #teethmatter