Possible cuts to the federal Medicaid budget could lead to increased dental care accessibility issues and severe dental health conditions for vulnerable populations, according to Geith Kallas, DDS.
The House Budget Committee released its budget blueprint for Fiscal Year 2025 Feb. 12, and voted to advance the resolution to the full House for approval. The proposal directs House committees to cut spending by at least $1.5 trillion, with the goal of reducing spending by $2 trillion over 10 years. The Energy and Commerce Committee, which is responsible for matters related to public health and the Department of Health and Human Services, is specifically being asked to cut $880 billion over the course of a decade.
The directive has led government officials and healthcare works to believe that cuts to Medicaid and other safety net programs are likely. Lawmakers are now being urged to avoid cuts to such programs.
Dr. Kallas, the CEO of Smile Makers Dental Center in Tyson's Corner, Va., spoke with Becker's about how any potential cuts to Medicaid could affect the dental industry.
Editor's note: This response was lightly edited for length and clarity.
Dr. Geith Kallas: The proposed budget blueprint is alarming, as it threatens to severely impact vital safety net programs, with Medicaid facing the largest cuts. This move could have far-reaching consequences, particularly for vulnerable populations relying on Medicaid for essential healthcare services, including dental care.
Medicaid plays a crucial role in providing dental coverage to low-income individuals, children and people with disabilities. Cuts to Medicaid would likely lead to reduced access to dental services, exacerbating existing oral health disparities. This, in turn, could result in increased emergency room visits for preventable dental issues, driving up healthcare costs in the long run.
The proposed cuts could also affect Medicaid's ability to cover essential dental services, such as:
- Preventive care: Regular cleanings, exams and sealants to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
- Restorative care: Fillings, crowns and extractions to treat dental problems.
- Oral health education: Programs promoting good oral hygiene practices and healthy habits.
It's essential to consider the long-term effects of these cuts on the overall health and wellbeing of Medicaid beneficiaries. As the American Hospital Association emphasizes, Medicaid provides critical healthcare services to millions of vulnerable individuals, and drastic cuts would have devastating consequences.
Personally, I've witnessed the vital role Medicaid plays in ensuring access to essential dental care. One patient, a college student, was struggling with multiple teeth affected by extensive decay. He required fillings, root canal therapy and crowns. Thankfully, Medicaid covered these necessary treatments, which would have been unaffordable for him within limited financial means.
If Medicaid were to be discontinued, the above patient and countless other Americans would be forced to forgo critical dental care. This would inevitably lead to severe dental health issues, ultimately affecting their overall wellbeing and quality of life.
Dental care is a fundamental right, not a privilege. Ensuring access to quality dental treatment for all is crucial for building a healthy and thriving society.