CIGNA Dental Turns Evidence into Action; Builds on Industry Leading Oral Health Integration Program to Launch New Initiatives for Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease
Establishes Clinical Advisory Panel
PLANTATION, Florida--CIGNA Dental has announced the expansion of its Oral Health Integration Program to include new initiatives promoting the treatment of gum disease for members with diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
In addition, CIGNA Dental has established a clinical advisory panel to provide advice on the creation of innovative coverage options addressing the emerging issues of medical/dental integration, evidence-based strategies, and new and developing dental technologies.
"The CIGNA Dental Oral Health Integration Program(SM) is the first enhanced benefit program of its kind to address diabetes, cardiovascular conditions and pre-term birth through improved oral health," said Karen Rohan, president of CIGNA Dental. "These programs combine CIGNA's integration and outreach capabilities to reinforce the connection between proper oral health and the overall health of an individual."
"The connection between periodontal disease and pre-term birth is much easier to identify as there is a beginning and an end to pregnancy. However, studying such a connection between periodontal disease and other systemic health issues like diabetes and cardiovascular disease is not as clear cut," said Dr. Marjorie Jeffcoat, dean of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, and CIGNA Dental Clinical Advisory Panel member.
"CIGNA's move to enhance its dental benefits by targeting diabetes and cardiovascular disease is a tremendous step in the right direction."
Under the new programs, beginning July 1, CIGNA Dental members who are also enrolled in CIGNA HealthCare's disease management programs for diabetes and cardiac care may receive 100 percent reimbursement for out-of-pocket costs associated with periodontal scaling and root planing, and periodontal maintenance.
The new initiatives expand upon the previously launched CIGNA Dental Oral Health Maternity Program, which provides enhanced benefits during pregnancy for members with both CIGNA medical and dental coverage. The CIGNA Dental Oral Health Integration Programs are designed to help eliminate cost as a barrier to seeking appropriate treatment.
