Medical-Dental Integration in Medicare: Where are We Now?

Abstract

ABSTRACTMedicare provides comprehensive medical coverage for nearly all U.S. adults over age 65 and those with disabilities, with far-reaching improvements in health care access and equity for those it serves. Despite recent political action, the dental coverage gap persists. Considering data through 2023, this review examines the status of oral health provisions through traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage and the logistics of expanded dental benefits in Medicare. The mechanism of dental coverage as well as the generosity of this benefit have important implications for oral health equity among older adults.

Keywords

• Medicare
• health policy
• dental insurance
• health equity
• oral health