Ohio Governor Ted Strickland is facing a massive budget shortfall of more than $3 billion. Filling that hole is not an easy task and many good programs may have to be cut back or eliminated. Some of the programs (other than dental coverage) at risk include preschool learning, community health centers and mental health facilities, which are frequently utilized.
The state’s poor could lose their dental insurance along with vision coverage and other types of care. However, administration officials say they plan to continue these services by temporarily using unspecified funds. Eventually, Strickland hopes the state will win a court case that will release $258 million of tobacco settlement money. If that does not occur, additional severe cutbacks could be coming in various sectors.Lower-income households tend to be impacted the most.
If you need comprehensive dental coverage instead of a “discount” type of plan, many companies are available, including Anthem, Medical Mutual, and UnitedHealthCare. Please contact us (see top of page) for a free quote. Humana also offers very favorable prices, and several smaller carriers offer additional options. Preventative benefits are often covered at 100%, although waiting periods are typically applied to major procedures, such as a root canal.
Affordable Ohio dental insurance plans are available, regardless if the state cuts aid. A wide variety of plans can be found, with premiums ranging from $10-$70 per month. We’ll be happy to review any of the plans with you. If you have an opportunity to enroll in a group plan provided by your employer, the rates may be lower than purchasing a private plan. Also, it’s likely that annual maximum benefits paid by the insurer are also higher.
To read more about Ohio’s budget problems and how it may affect you, please click here. Because this is a very fluid topic, budget changes can be made very quickly. The article was from 2009 so it’s no longer relevant. We have updated information on the main website. Private and Group dental plans are available.
