Lack of Dental Insurance Contributes to Rise in ER Admissions in America
A lack of dental insurance is contributing to an increase in the number of ER admissions in America, it has been revealed.
A growing number of people who do not have dental insurance are visiting their local emergency department with dental problems, increasing pressure on local medical services. Over the last few years, many people have lost their insurance benefits as a result of being made redundant and many people cannot afford to pay for dental coverage, leaving millions uninsured.
The cost of dental care is too high for people living on low incomes and the unemployed and this has contributed to more and more people putting off routine treatment and check-ups. As a result of not visiting the dentist on a regular basis, the risk of oral health diseases, infections and severe pain is much higher and this is why more and more people are ending up in the emergency departments of hospitals.
Statistics show that Medicaid provision is poor and in ten states, including Delaware, Colorado, California and Arizona, there is no Medicaid cover for adults at all. This is making it increasingly difficult for people to access affordable dental care.
The size of the crowds flocking to free dental events and clinics confirms the gravity of the situation, with some people so desperate to see a dentist that they are willing to queue in all weather conditions for more than 24 hours.
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