With the release of the Senate budget Tuesday, both Houses of the state Legislature are proposing to continue funding dental coverage for low-income pregnant women, seniors in nursing homes and people with developmental disabilities. This coverage was eliminated in Gov. Gregoire’s proposed supplemental budget.
Decisions by legislators to preserve dental coverage reflect increased recognition that oral health is an essential part of overall health and that dental disease prevention saves money.
Like the House, the Senate budget also funds the Volunteer/Retired Provider Program that provides malpractice insurance for thousands 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 Community Health Centers and the Basic Health Plan, and does not cut funding for local public health jurisdictions.
As decisions are made regarding the budget, advocacy efforts must continue to ensure that programs such as dental coverage that protect the health of vulnerable people are included in the final budget. Preventing dental disease is important because it saves money and improves health.
Oral Health Watch
5 hours ago
Every child deserves an opportunity to enjoy the benefits of good oral health. When we provide access to quality oral health care for low-income children, we can significantly improve their overall well-being, quality of life and ability to thrive. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
10 hours ago
Every child deserves an opportunity to enjoy the benefits of good oral health. When we provide access to quality oral health care for low-income children, we can significantly improve their overall well-being, quality of life and ability to thrive. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
Providing oral health care access for lower-income workers can make a profound difference in health and quality of life. Bad breath, tooth loss, and visible decay can significantly impact employment opportunities for working adults with:
✅decreased confidence
✅increased absenteeism
... ✅lower productivity
✅potential negative perceptions by employers, colleagues and customers. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
Providing oral health care access for lower-income workers can make a profound difference in health and quality of life. Bad breath, tooth loss, and visible decay can significantly impact employment opportunities for working adults with:
✅decreased confidence
✅increased absenteeism
... ✅lower productivity
✅potential negative perceptions by employers, colleagues and customers. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 days ago
Access to preventive and restorative oral health care is highly effective and saves money, sparing people from needless pain and expensive hospital emergency department visits that don't have the equipment or trained staff to address the root causes of oral disease. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
Access to preventive and restorative oral health care is highly effective and saves money, sparing people from needless pain and expensive hospital emergency department visits that don't have the equipment or trained staff to address the root causes of oral disease. #teethmatter