A recent report on emergency room use from the Washington Health Care Authority is receiving a lot of media attention. According to the report, an initiative to reduce “unnecessary” emergency room visits is on track to generate savings of up to $31 million per year.
The Seattle Times article notes that helping Medicaid patients avoid dental emergencies is another key goal of the coalition of medical providers and state officials looking to save money by reducing ER use.
According to KUOW’s coverage, dental emergencies are a large part of the problem. “Without preventive care, many (patients) end up in the ER with a dental emergency that the ER is not equipped to handle.”
One way to avoid patients coming into emergency rooms with dental pain is for the Legislature to restore dental coverage for low-income adults this session. Preventing dental disease saves money, improves health and keeps people out of the ER.
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
Healthy smiles make for even brighter holidays. Between cookies, cocoa, and festive feasts, following a few simple habits can help you enjoy all your favorite holiday treats while keeping your teeth and gums healthy. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 days ago
Healthy smiles make for even brighter holidays. Between cookies, cocoa, and festive feasts, following a few simple habits can help you enjoy all your favorite holiday treats while keeping your teeth and gums healthy. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
Programs like Access to Baby and Child Dentistry (ABCD) Program are proof that prevention works. By connecting Apple Health–insured babies and young children with dentists trained to care for them, ABCD has dramatically increased access to dental care and helped make Washington a national leader ...in kids’ oral health. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
Programs like Access to Baby & Child Dentistry (ABCD) are proof that prevention works. By connecting Apple Health–insured babies and young children with dentists trained to care for them, ABCD has dramatically increased access to dental care and helped make Washington a national leader in ...kids’ oral health. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
5 days ago
Access to preventive oral health care significantly reduces emergency department visits for dental issues by treating minor issues like cavities and gum disease early before they escalate into painful infections or abscesses that drive people to the hospital for pain relief and antibiotics. ...#teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
5 days ago
Access to preventive oral health care significantly reduces emergency department visits for dental issues by treating minor issues like cavities and gum disease early before they escalate into painful infections or abscesses that drive people to the hospital for pain relief and antibiotics. ...#teethmatter