Governor Tom Corbett’s proposed cuts to Medicaid for those who are over 21 are dramatic and will have very negative consequences drastically limiting dental care which may lead to the increase of potential health risks. Governor Corbett’s proposed Care Management Initiative will limit Medicaid optional dental benefits that will include:  

•the elimination of denture benefits,

•the elimination of crown benefits,

•the elimination of periodontal benefits – treatment of the supporting structures of the teeth (gums), diseases and conditions that affect them.

•the reduction of exams and cleanings from two times per year to only once a year 

On page E22.14 of the governor’s Executive Budget 2011-2012 it is stated that one of Pennsylvania’s Preventative Health Program Objectives is to ‘reduce morbidity and mortality through the early detection of disease and health defects and the promotion of sound health practices and remedial care.’ However, lawmakers have gone to great lengths to develop a Care Management Initiative which completely limits and contradicts the core mission of the Preventative Health Program Objective. One cannot detect disease and health defects and promote sound health practices and remedial care WHEN there are limits to the programs which detect disease and promote sound health practices!  

I am very concerned and I completely OPPOSE the CUTS to the Pennsylvania MEDICAID program. Please do not cut our state’s Medicaid benefits to balance the state budget.