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
3 days ago
DentistLink is a free referral service with friendly and knowledgeable referral specialists connecting people to dental care in their community whether they are uninsured or insured, including Apple Health (Medicaid). #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
4 days ago
Nearly half of working parents report taking time off to address their children's oral health needs. Preventive oral health care access means less pain, fewer missed school and work days, and lower treatment costs. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
5 days ago
Washington’s Access to Baby and Child Dentistry (ABCD)Program helps young children with Apple Health coverage get the preventive dental care they need, reducing future dental costs and setting kids on a lifelong path of good oral health. Supporting prevention is good for kids and a smart ...Read moreinvestment. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
6 days ago
Water fluoridation helps protect everyone's teeth against cavities regardless of age or income level. But it is especially beneficial for our neighbors and community members who experience barriers to dental care access, including children, lower-income workers, senior citizens, and people ...Read morewith disabilities. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
7 days ago
An estimated 30,000 to 45,000+ Washington residents end up in hospital emergency departments each year for preventable, non-traumatic dental conditions like untreated cavities, deep abscesses, and severe pain. When people lose access to basic, preventive oral health care, untreated cavities and ...Read moretooth decay don't just disappear—they worsen. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 weeks ago
When we invest in dental care access, we invest in people. Supporting preventive and restorative care for lower-income children and adults means stronger communities, a healthier workforce, and more kids ready to thrive. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 weeks ago
Healthy smiles start with everyday prevention. Community water fluoridation, brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, and regular dental checkups help keep teeth strong and cavities away. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 weeks ago
Money invested in early, accessible pediatric oral health care can yield massive returns in the workplace. When kids have access to preventive oral health care, it means working parents having to take less time off - especially for hourly wage workers. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 weeks ago