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
Family schedules tend to be less structured as routines shift away from fixed wake-up times, school, and homework requirements. But don't forget to ensure ample time to maintain a good oral health routine. This includes regular brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing and hydrating with ...water (fluoridated is best) instead of sugary drinks. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
23 hours ago
#DYK tooth decay is largely preventable? Proven-effective strategies like access to regular dental visits, brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily, and community water fluoridation can help kids and adults avoid the physical discomfort and burdensome cost of cavities. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
#DYK tooth decay is largely preventable? Proven-effective strategies like access to regular dental visits, brushing with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily, and community water fluoridation can help kids and adults avoid the physical discomfort and burdensome cost of cavities. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
Thank you, Arcora Foundation, Delta Dental of Washington, Seattle Children's, and caring volunteer providers for making the SmileMobile possible. #teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
1 days ago
💯 Arcora Foundation. Oral health care needs don't go away just because coverage does. The estimated 250,000 Washingtonians in need of dental care to either pay out of pocket, delay preventive care and/or forego necessary dental treatment, leading to:
🤒 Needless pain and suffering
... 💵 Burdening patients with costly care
🏥 Straining hospital emergency departments and our health care system
💪 Compromising individual and community health
#teethmatter
Oral Health Watch
2 days 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