Children’s dental coverage can change year after year, but predicting that change is a bit more complicated. With a new administration taking charge in 2017, a change in children’s coverage could become a reality. Here are some possibilities:
Programs through Medicaid
KidsCare, which is available through Medicaid/CHIP, offers health and dental benefits for children under the age of 19 who qualify. Benefits included in the program include all preventative services.
Providers through the Health Insurance Exchange
Children’s dental coverage is considered an essential health benefit under the Affordable Care Act, so providers who are part of the Health Insurance Exchange must offer pediatric dental benefits for children 18 and under.
Why These 2 Programs Could Change
Both Federal and State governments provide funding to the previously mentioned programs. Changes in this fund can mean changes to or elimination of the programs and the benefits they provide.
Make Preventive Care a Constant
Although tooth decay is the number one chronic disease in Arizona children, it is preventable. A child’s teeth affect more than their smile—it can impact their social, physical and mental development.
