Health Reform Bill will bring significant changes to dental provision
The historic vote that took place yesterday at Congress could have radical implications for millions of dental patients across America.
President Obama has been campaigning tirelessly for changes in healthcare and insurance since he was elected; yesterday, his prayers were answered and the bill was passed by the narrowest of margins.
The health reform package will include substantial changes to oral healthcare in the USA, which will be focused on low-income families and children. The HR 3590 bill proposes a number of changes which will include a dental health benefit for all children and adults under the age of 21; this will cone as part of the changes made to the health insurance system. The bill will aim to put an end to the inequality in the provision of care; currently, millions of parents and carers are struggling to afford dental care for their children and as a result, their children are suffering from poor oral health.
The bill will also encourage and support the work of dental hygienists by recognising them as primary healthcare providers; they will offer grants for development and further training and will encourage them to take on a more active role in dental healthcare.
A significant amount of money will also be devoted to education and preventive dentistry; these will be aimed at children but adults will also benefit from the new schemes. Educating people about the importance of taking care of their teeth and gums, nutrition and visiting the dentist regularly will help to improve national standards of dental health and pave the way for future generations, as people will pass on their good oral hygiene habits.
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