How fee and insurance changes could affect dentistry: results from a microsimulation model
Article Abstract:
A computer model of the dental care sector may estimate how policy changes will impact various aspects of dental care delivery. Researchers used a computer model to estimate the effect of reducing dental insurance coverage or dental fees on dental visits, dental expenditures, and oral health status. A decrease of 25%, 50%, or 75% in the percentage of people with dental insurance would reduce dental expenditures by less than 6%. Reduced dental insurance coverage would decrease dental visits by less than 5% and would increase the number of cavities in the population. Reducing dental fees by 5%, 10%, or 25% would cut dental care expenditures per person in corresponding percentages. Universal dental coverage for children would increase dental expenditures per person by a few dollars, would increase dental visitation by 2% to 2.5%, and would decrease cavities by 1%.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 1995
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Demand-side trends
Article Abstract:
Dental health has improved steadily from 1970 through the 1990's, with only modest increases in dental expenditures. The incidence of tooth cavities in children fell 50%, particularly among ethnic minorities. Restorative dental procedures, such as fillings, make up a smaller percentage of total dental services provided, while preventive services have increased. The cost of dental services has grown modestly, while other health care costs have grown substantially. Half of Americans have prepaid dental coverage from their employers, and 57% reported in 1989 that they visited a dentist in the past year.
Publication Name: Journal of the American Dental Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0002-8177
Year: 1998
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