Along today's benefits landscape, forward-thinking brokers are partnering with dental insurance companies to highlight the
By implementing this approach, you'll be better positioned to
Gum disease is a significant oral health problem for people with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, affecting an estimated 22% of those with the condition, according to the American Dental Association. The relationship between these diseases is two-way: High blood sugar increases a person's risk of developing gum disease, and, in turn, gum inflammation and infections make it difficult for the body to control blood sugar levels.
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Diabetes also elevates the risk of other oral complications, such as tooth decay, dry mouth and mouth sores. Furthermore,
Beyond diabetes' effects on oral and overall health, there is also the financial aspect to consider. The impact on the U.S. workforce is significant, with businesses losing an estimated
It's also a costly issue for individuals. The medical expenses for Americans with diabetes are
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Dental insurance-focused strategies
As a broker, you can take the lead in turning the critical link between oral health and diabetes into practical solutions for your clients. By leveraging dental insurance resources and benefits, you'll help employers create healthier, more productive workforces, improve their return on investment in employee well-being and strengthen client relationships. Consider these five steps:
1. Prioritize preventive-focused plan designs. Recommend that clients choose coverage options with no or low co-pays for preventive and diagnostic services, like cleanings, exams and X-rays, to reduce barriers to care. By minimizing out-of-pocket costs, employees are more likely to engage in healthy oral hygiene habits. Affordable, routine dental care is essential for the prevention and early detection of oral health problems in individuals with diabetes and other chronic conditions. A healthier workforce can reduce absenteeism, increase productivity and potentially lower health care costs for employers in the long term.
2. Position yourself as a knowledge hub for clients. Actively seek out dental insurance companies that offer educational materials, workshops and webinars on the oral-systemic link and its impact on diabetes and other serious health issues. Tailor and present these resources to meet the specific needs of your clients, emphasizing the value of preventive care and how it can help minimize expensive dental and other health issues. Consider using various communications channels like e-newsletters, virtual meetings and on-site presentations to maximize reach and engagement.
3. Work with dental insurers offering robust resources for support. Inquire about the level of support offered by a dental insurance company since it can vary for each insurer. For example, ask whether the insurer has dedicated oral health professionals with expertise in diabetes management or if tailored programs are offered to help employees with diabetes manage their oral health effectively. This added value can be a key differentiator and asset for clients.
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4. Champion enhanced dental benefits for total health. Encourage dental coverage that actively supports employees in maintaining not only good oral health, but also overall wellness. These plans may offer increased coverage for gum disease treatment, fluoride applications and specialized oral health education programs, specifically for individuals with diabetes and other diseases.
5. Use data-driven insights to map employee health. Leverage data and analytics provided by dental insurance companies to pinpoint specific oral health risks and trends within your clients' employee populations. By offering detailed claims data, you can help employers implement targeted interventions and wellness programs that address the most pressing needs, leading to improved health outcomes and potential cost savings.
Ultimately, addressing diabetes risk through the lens of oral health provides a unique and valuable approach for brokers to stand out. By advocating for dental benefits that emphasize prevention and early intervention, you empower your clients to manage employee health more effectively. This strengthens client relationships, promotes a healthier workforce and positions you as a strategic partner invested in their long-term success.
