Do you wish that companies and influential people outside of the dental industry would look at the facts and get on board with the philosophy that dental health has a direct impact on overall health? Apparently, dental professionals have made enough noise to be heard – by an insurance company, if you can believe that!
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas, the largest Texas insurance carrier and the only customer-owned health insurer for an entire state, announced their new program, BlueCare Dental Connection, which focuses on whole-health, based on a patient’s medical and dental situation. The press release states: “This new approach is designed to specifically help users optimize their overall health by making better decisions about their oral health through the pursuit of evidence-based research and information.”
With all the press about the oral health/total health link – such as the evidence that shows 80% of Americans have periodontal disease, which increases the risk for heart disease, strokes, pregnancy complications, and other major health problems – BCBS of Texas has taken notice. It makes perfect sense – the insurance company can save money by approaching healthcare from a total-wellness perspective, and their members reap the health rewards.
BlueCare Dental Connection’s flyer puts it this way: “…a proactive approach designed to empower members to make informed decisions about where and when to receive care. Studies show that informed decisions may result in better health outcomes and reduced costs.” The program is free for members, and it includes a Decay Management Program and Periodontal Disease Management Program.
By providing educational materials online and reaching out to find members who may have dental health issues that could compromise their whole health, BCBS of Texas hopes to target the folks who will benefit most from the BlueCare Dental Connection. The Dental Wellness Center™ will link members with dentists for answers to their questions, while providing articles and information on dental health. Members can also locate a dentist and review fees for procedures on this site.
Read the full press release here.
Visit the BlueCare Dental Connection website here (and download the flyer to learn more).