Ohio Dental OPTIONS assistance program.
More people are struggling with paying for their health care and dental bills. Families trying to find access to affordable dental care in Ohio are finding that it is a big problem. However there is some good news and an organization that can help. Numerous dentists in Ohio have partnered together to provide residents with high quality, low cost, or even free dental care. They are providing needed access to oral health care to individuals who need assistance.
Dental OPTIONS is the primary assistance program that was created. The program is sponsored by the Ohio Department of Health and the Ohio Dental Association. It is an assistance program that links individuals and families in need with dentists that have joined the program. These health care professionals have agreed to treat patients for reduced fees. Some may even provide free care.
While this organization will help many people, it is widely recognized that additional programs are needed to ensure that all Ohio residents receive the high quality dental care that they need. The ODA continues to try to increase the size of and enhance their program. The organizations is working closely with the Ohio Department of Health to determine cost-effective ways to provide high quality care to all people who need it.
How does the Ohio Dental OPTIONS program work?
Dental OPTIONS (which stands for Ohio Partnership To Improve Oral health through access to Needed Services) is a dental assistance program that is administered and offered by the Ohio Department of Health in partnership with the Ohio Dental Association. Their are several goals of the program, but the primary mission of OPTIONS is to assist Ohioans with special medical, health care, and dental needs. It will also aid people who are facing financial barriers to obtain dental care.
While anyone can apply, OPTIONS patients are primarily adults. Also many applicants are the "working poor" or elderly living on a fixed income. Eligible patients will be matched with volunteer OPTIONS dentists who have agreed to reduce fees on their services. Also, under special circumstances, Dental OPTIONS may be able to provide donated services or free care. Some of the services provided include Fillings, Extractions of Teeth, Crowns, Root Canals, Gum Disease Treatment, Partials, Medically Necessary Braces, and Dentures.
For more information on Dental OPTIONS call 1.888.765.6789. This is just one option in the state or nationwide. Or find other ways to get free health care.
What other dental assistance programs are there?
People have other options. The state of Ohio Department of Health provides additional information on finding other dental care programs and resources throughout the state. The government agency can refer people to Safety Net Dental Care Programs in the state. They can also provide information on another service called Healthy Start, or provide further details on Dental OPTIONS and more.
A Safety Net program in place also offers sliding fee schedules, free care, or reduced fees to those patients who cannot afford a private dentist. For information on safety net programs or other options, contact a referral coordinator of the OPTIONS program, 1.888.765.6789.
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