Aetna Launches Combined Dental/Medical Program

According to a news release, the enhanced benefit program for pregnant women is available at no charge to plan sponsors with both Aetna medical and dental coverage and that have members enrolled in the Moms-to-Babies program. The program is effective January 1, 2007.

These benefit enhancements are fully covered with no deductible and include:

• One additional cleaning visit
• Non-surgical removal of tartar, bacteria and rough surfaces
• Removal of plaque and tartar as a first step to enable a dentist to perform an exam
• Follow up visits that include spot removal of plaque and tartar to maintain a clean and healthy oral environment

The enhanced benefit program for diabetes and coronary artery disease/cerebrovascular disease) is available at an additional charge to plan sponsors that have both Aetna medical and dental coverage.   This program targets members with diabetes and/or coronary artery disease/cerebrovascular disease.

“ The association between oral health and systemic health is consistently demonstrated in clinical studies, and the findings are positively impacting the treatment and management of patients,” said Dr. Mary Lee Conicella, Aetna Dental’s national director of clinical operations in the news release. “Specifically, there is a significant body of research that indicates pregnant women and individuals with diabetes or heart disease benefit from early periodontal care. The member outreach program, in conjunction with enhancements to our dental offerings, is designed to motivate these individuals to seek care.”