BCBSIL's New Dental Program Aims to Improve Members' Overall Health, Target At-Risk Members |
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Written by U.S. Insurance News
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Monday, 18 February 2008 |
An ounce of dental prevention could be worth a pound of cure for people's overall health.
That's why Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) is launching BlueCare Dental ConnectionSM, an integrated medical-dental program, available at no cost to BCBSIL members who carry medical and dental insurance. This program compares the medical and dental data of BCBSIL members to create customized plans to help members make good decisions about their dental health, thereby improving their overall health.
Various research studies show a potential link between a person's dental health and overall health. Through BlueCare Dental Connection, BCBSIL can use medical and dental claim information to pinpoint members who are at risk for health conditions-such as diabetes and heart disease-complicated by dental disease.
In addition, BCBSIL can reach out to members who are at risk for dental caries or periodontal (gum) disease in an effort to minimize or prevent these dental conditions early on. BCBSIL will provide targeted intervention to at-risk members through online tools and information on the BCBSIL Web site. "The Dental Wellness Center" page on the BCBSIL Web site will provide educational articles, information on specific medical conditions and their relationship to oral health, and feature-rich tools.
Dr. Timothy Custer, dental director for Dental Network of America, said BlueCare Dental Connection is critical to maintaining members' overall health and controlling health care costs.
"By combining online support tools with a coordinated outreach component, BCBSIL can target members most in need of education and intervention," Dr. Custer added.
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