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
9 hours ago
Is it important for both parents and kids to have access to preventive oral health care? 💯 Parents who model good oral health habits make it more likely for children to adopt these practices from a young age. This proactive approach can help prevent future dental problems, missed school days due... to pain, and potential long-term health issues. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
14 hours ago
Is it important for both parents and kids to have access to preventive oral health care? 💯 Parents who model good oral health habits make it more likely for children to adopt these practices from a young age. This proactive approach can help prevent future dental problems, missed school days due... to pain, and potential long-term health issues. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
4 days ago
Oral Health Watch
4 days ago
Oral Health Watch
5 days ago
Medicaid cuts won't only affect lower-income patients. Health experts say many privately-insured patients will experience reduced services, higher healthcare spending as costs shift onto the remaining private insurance system, and reduced access to care as hospitals and clinics face cuts and ...closure due to financial instability from decreased revenue and an uptick in uncompensated care. #MedicaidMatters #SaveMedicaid #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
5 days ago
Medicaid cuts won't only affect lower-income patients. Health experts say many privately-insured patients will experience reduced services, higher healthcare spending as costs shift onto the remaining private insurance system, and reduced access to care as hospitals and clinics face cuts and ...closure due to financial instability from decreased revenue and an uptick in uncompensated care. #MedicaidMatters #SaveMedicaid #teethmatter