While Pakistan is familiar with the concept of health insurance not the same can be said about dental insurance. The increasing necessity of the latter is an important factor to acknowledge amidst the rising inflation and costs of dental treatments.
The indications of the difficult economic times are a justification for how hard it has become for people to get access to affordable dental care.
Throughout the world, dental insurance policies help people to get basic dental treatments done without any extra costs.
Regrettably, the decision makers and some healthcare professionals do not understand the unmet needs of the people and how they affect the quality of life of individuals, communities and the population at large.
Importance of Dental Insurance
Preventive dental care plays a big role in optimum oral hygiene maintenance. The early detection and assessment of dental problems lead to a lack of bigger issues down the road. Dental plans cover preventive visits with little to no extra cost. Meanwhile, in instances when major dental issues arise the insurance plan can save the patient from major financial risks.
Over time researchers continue to identify the link between poor oral health and systemic conditions. Poor oral hygiene can give rise to severe problems which can have a detrimental effect on general health - which can be avoided in cases of dental insurance.
Services Covered By Dental Insurance Plans
Different plans offer different levels of benefit which can be accustomed to patients' needs. Insurance treatments usually cover fluoride treatments for those under the age of 16 years. The range of treatments further includes fillings and emergency treatment for pain and swelling. Retainers, root canals, gum diseases and extractions.
In Pakistan, there are some companies which offer most of the health insurance and company health covers. However, they offer very basic dental treatment, restricted in the majority of the cases to emergency pain relief, treatment of gum conditions and extractions. Hence, the majority of the population has to dig into their already shallow pockets for dental care.
Critical Dental Issues
The alarming rise in the cases of oral cancer due to the consumption of betel quid also requires the placement of adequate insurance plans to help patients cover the costs of treatments and services.
Meanwhile, other critical dental and oral conditions including cystic lesions, benign mucosal lesions, and pediatric concerns can also benefit majorly from insurance policies.
Hence, given the current circumstances, it is high time that policymakers must make sure to take immediate measures and install meaningful strategies to combat dental problems.
