Do You Qualify for HoG’s Dental Program?

Horizons in Hemophilia, January 2013

By Cathy Hulbert, LCSW, HoG Social Worker

If you ever have an opportunity to add dental coverage to your employer-sponsored health insurance, Hemophilia of Georgia social workers and nurses urge you to add that important benefit to your coverage. Compared to the cost of general health insurance it is relatively inexpensive and can contribute greatly to your health and quality of life. But for those with bleeding disorders who do not have access to dental insurance -- and can’t afford dental care on their own -- HoG has created a dental program that pays for two cleanings a year.   

Clients who meet the following eligibility requirements should contact Social Work Supervisor Gail Day, LCSW, at the HoG office for an application:

• Applicants must be Hemophilia of Georgia clients who have hemophilia, von Willebrand Disease, or another inherited bleeding disorder.
• Applicants must currently reside in Georgia AND have been a permanent resident of Georgia for a minimum of one year.
• Applicants must provide proof of financial need.

HoG also wants all clients to know that with increased research comes the knowledge that neglected teeth can trigger a number of serious health conditions, possibly impacting the heart, joints and intestines. Overall, people with bleeding disorders are living longer and (hopefully) keeping their teeth longer.

Even if you have avoided the dentist in the past due to a fear of bleeds or a lack of funds to pay for it, good dental care can become a new habit that can improve your life in many ways. As always, make certain that your hematology team knows when you have plans for dental care in case a treatment plan needs to be created for you. And if you need dental care that goes beyond cleanings but cannot afford it, contact your HoG social worker to discuss the possibility of additional financial support.