The proposed House supplemental budget protects many essential programs that provide dental coverage to vulnerable populations. Thanks in part to the efforts of Citizens’ Watch coalition and grassroots support statewide, there is a growing awareness that oral health is a critical part of overall health.
The House budget released today in Olympia maintains funding for dental coverage provided to low-income pregnant women, seniors in nursing homes and people with developmental disabilities. This coverage was eliminated in the Governor’s proposed supplemental budget.
In addition, the House budget maintains funding for the Volunteer/Retired Provider Program that provides malpractice insurance for thousand of dentists, hygienists and other healthcare workers who volunteer their services. It also protects funding for other programs that benefit the oral health of low-income people including funding for Community Health Centers and the Basic Health Plan (see table below).
The Senate budget will be out soon, and hopefully it also will protect the oral health for vulnerable people by funding dental coverage.
Please continue to spread the word that dental disease prevention is a smart investment because it saves money and improves health. We appreciate your support.
Proposed House Supplemental Budget
|
Oral health program |
Status – 2012 session Current proposal underlined |
| Medicaid dental coverage for pregnant women, people in long-term care and with developmental disabilities (DECOD program) | Governor’s budget: Eliminates coverageHouse budget: Protected |
| Community Health Centers, including retention of the Basic Health Plan | Governor’s budget: Eliminates basic healthHouse: Protected |
| Volunteer/Retired Provider (VRP) Program | Governor’s budget: Eliminates VRP programHouse: Protected |
| Interpreter services | Governor’s budget: Eliminates interpreter servicesHouse: Protected |
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
It's not always easy choosing water over sweet drinks and sodas. Check out these tips to make getting your daily water allowance easier. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
4 days ago
Oral health profoundly impacts our lives. From sustaining basic health to achieving self-esteem and social belonging, the condition of your mouth influences overall physical, psychological, and socioeconomic well-being. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
5 days ago
Water fluoridation is one of the simplest, most effective ways to prevent cavities. It helps protect teeth every day, benefits people of all ages and income levels, and supports healthier communities. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
6 days ago
Dental care access matters for the entire family! Studies show when caregivers and parents receive regular dental care, their kids are more likely to have good oral health, practice preventive habits, and avoid missed school due to dental problems. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
7 days ago
With untreated cavities increasing among Washington children across every racial and ethnic group, prevention is more important than ever. Community water fluoridation, sealants, fluoride varnishes, and access to regular checkups helps make it possible for kids to start life with a healthy smile. ...#teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 weeks ago
Access to preventive oral health care, fluoride, sealants and early treatment matters. Prevention protects health—and prevents a small problem from becoming a lifelong burden. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 weeks ago
One cavity can begin a lifetime cycle of fillings, repairs, pain and costly dental treatment. That’s why ensuring access to preventive dental care—and proven measures such as fluoride, dental sealants and regular checkups—is both sound health policy and a wise investment. Preventing disease ...before it starts improves health, reduces long-term costs and helps people keep their natural teeth throughout their lives. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 weeks ago
Healthy communities begin with access to preventive care - including oral health care. Regular checkups, screenings, and preventive measures like community water fluoridation help prevent disease and keep people healthy at every stage of life. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 weeks ago
Access to preventive oral health care is fiscally responsible public policy. Regular care helps prevent small problems from becoming painful, complex, and costly. Investing in prevention lowers long-term costs while supporting healthier people, stronger communities and a more productive workforce. ...#teethmatter