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
10 hours ago
Community water fluoridation benefits everyone and has made a profound difference in preventing cavities and preventing tooth loss for people of all ages for nearly 80 years. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
11 hours ago
Community water fluoridation benefits everyone and has made a profound difference in preventing cavities and preventing tooth loss for people of all ages for nearly 80 years. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
Oral health IS health; dental coverage IS health coverage. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 days ago
Oral health IS health; dental coverage IS health coverage. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 days ago
Medicaid ensures that more than 30 million U.S. children - including more than 850,000 babies, toddlers, youth, and teens in Washington state - have access to healthcare. Please Tell Congress: No cuts to Medicaid. #FacesofMedicaid #teethmatter #medicaidmatters
Oral Health Watch
3 days ago
Medicaid ensures that more than 30 million U.S. children - including more than 850,000 babies, toddlers, youth, and teens in Washington state - have access to healthcare. Please Tell Congress: No cuts to Medicaid. #FacesofMedicaid #teethmatter #medicaidmatters