American dental benefits: on the cusp of historic change

The barber had pulled teeth long after the doctor monopolized surgery on other parts of the body. The gap between dentists and other healthcare professionals continued into the 21st century, when it became part of the healthcare system. The insurance company covers the teeth separately.

The US Congress is considering adding dental benefits to the Medicare health program for the elderly. Many older people do not have access to dental care. It can improve health outcomes. General medical insurance in the United States is terrible compared to other developed countries. However, the level of dental treatment worsens.

Just below Two-thirds According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a percentage of adult Americans saw a dentist in 2019. However, during that time, 85% saw a doctor. It is not surprising that the bias is economic, as is the case with the social benefits of private employers. Among Americans with a household income below 200% of the poverty line Only half I was able to access the dentist.

The historical representation between medicine and dentistry eventually led to the formation of separate vocational schools for each. Dental care was considered preventative and routine when private health insurance first appeared in the United States after World War II. Risk sharing with medical care has in fact only taken place as a protective measure against catastrophic emergencies. Health insurance excludes dental care.

US Senator Bernie Sanders and his center-left writers say the separation of health care and dental care is above all a historic accident, hurting older people who are currently being treated with Medicare. It is said. The Build Back Better bill, backed by President Biden, plans to expand dental benefits under Medicare receipts, but progress has stalled so far.

Wealthy and influential lobbying dentists are fighting cost proposals to the US government. Estimated $ 238 billion More than 10 years. They believe that the extra bureaucracy and low reimbursement levels mean that their additional customer base is a financial and operational burden.

They can succeed in derailing reforms. no matter. What is clear is that the backcountry of America’s healthcare industry and its substantial financial services are expensive, inefficient, and rent-seeking. Expect more and more political pressure from insurers and benefit managers. However, the US government, which primarily hates the socialization of healthcare, will always be the provider of last resort.