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Dental care coverage among older Americans
1Department of Oral Health Care Delivery, School of Dentistry, University of Maryland, Baltimore 21201, USA.
The Journal of the American College of Dentists
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Dental insurance coverage is not evenly distributed. This study found that individuals with low income, poor health, and those who are older, unemployed, or female are least likely to have dental insurance.
Area of Science:
- Health Services Research
- Public Health
- Health Economics
Background:
- Dental expenditures have risen significantly, partly due to increased dental insurance availability.
- Dental insurance coverage is unevenly distributed across the population, with disparities noted particularly by age.
- Existing research links dental care coverage to utilization, but lacks comprehensive analysis of factors influencing coverage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify demographic and socioeconomic factors associated with having dental insurance.
- To understand the predictors of dental care coverage in the population.
Main Methods:
- The study analyzed multiple factors to determine who is most likely to possess dental insurance.
- Empirical investigation of factors influencing dental care coverage.
Main Results:
- Low income, large family size, poor health status, being unmarried, older age, unemployment, and female gender were significantly associated with a lower likelihood of having dental insurance.
- These factors collectively indicate a vulnerable population segment with reduced access to dental care coverage.
Conclusions:
- Targeted interventions are needed to improve dental insurance access for socioeconomically disadvantaged and vulnerable groups.
- Addressing these disparities is crucial for promoting equitable dental care utilization and improving overall public health outcomes.