Rhode Island has embraced Medicaid in January 2014, offering many low-income adults the chance to avail discounted medical services. If you are a Medicaid member, you can also receive dental treatment at different clinics and hospitals across the nation, including Dr. Dental. If you still haven’t applied for this government-initiative, read on to find out what you’re missing out on.
Dental Coverage Under Medicaid
The Rhode Island Medicaid program offers beneficiaries three Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) dental programs to cover the costs of dental services in the state.
- RIte Smiles – This is a dental plan offered to children who were born after May 1, 2000. It’s offered under Rhode Island’s Medicaid/CHIP care program.
- Medicaid Dental Services – While RIte Smiles covers children born after May 1st, 2000, Medicaid Dental Services extends medical services to those born before May 1st, 2000 as well as adults.
- Nursing Home Mobile Dental Program – Residents of nursing homes, or assisted living for seniors, who have Medicaid coverage can access the services of CareLink Wisdom Tooth Program and WellOne. However, to qualify, the resident of a nursing home should have completed 45 days at the home.
While each of these comes with its own set of rules and regulations, they cover the same treatments as other Medicaid programs across the states. You will also need prior approval for all services aside from emergency care and palliative treatment. That aside, orthodontia isn’t covered by the program.
Applying for Medicaid in RI
If you need dental care for you and your family, Medicaid will definitely help you slash costs. To apply, you need to be a U.S. citizen or legal resident in Rhode Island. Next, you need to collect and provide documents which prove that your income is according to the following requirements:
- For Children Ages 0 – 18: 261% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)
- For Pregnant Women: 190% of the FPL
- For Adults (Parents and Other Adults): 133% of the FPL
You may also need proof of pregnancy, immigration status, and citizenship and identity. The quicker you collect these documents, the quicker your application will be processed and your coverage will be active. For more information, make sure to check with your Rhode Island insurance providers.
Once you get your Rhode Island Medicaid membership, you can easily stop by any of Dr. Dental’s clinics and get the treatments you and your family require. Just make sure to book your appointment beforehand so that our dentists can dedicate their time fully to your case.