A privately practicing dentist, Dr. Christopher Lillo has donated many services to patients who have experienced financial hardships. Dr. Christopher Lillo has also worked with a local mobile dental service, which offers care to seniors in private residences, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes.
Because Medicare often does not cover dental health expenses, many seniors find it difficult or impossible to afford the oral care that they need. Some may be able to find funding for dental care through a Medicare Advantage plan, which covers certain dental procedures and other services for which standard Medicare does not compensate. Seniors who need more extensive and broad-reaching care may be able to enroll in the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, while residents of nursing homes are eligible for the federal Incurred Medical Expense (IME) program. This mandated program allows residents to use social security funds to pay for necessary dental care while Social Security covers the differential in cost.
If a senior's circumstances make them ineligible for coverage, a number of public and private programs can close this gap. Some counties and communities have public dental clinics or community health centers, which offer reduced-price or free care. Members of the public can find these services by contacting the appropriate public health department or through a free clinics search engine.
Similarly, a number of federally qualified health centers (FQHC's) or local hospitals offer dental care, though fees may vary. Areas with dental schools may also host clinics, which allow students to gain practical experience while working under the supervision of a qualified professional. There are also private dentists who offer services pro bono or volunteer their time at a nonprofit dental care outreach center.
Because Medicare often does not cover dental health expenses, many seniors find it difficult or impossible to afford the oral care that they need. Some may be able to find funding for dental care through a Medicare Advantage plan, which covers certain dental procedures and other services for which standard Medicare does not compensate. Seniors who need more extensive and broad-reaching care may be able to enroll in the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, while residents of nursing homes are eligible for the federal Incurred Medical Expense (IME) program. This mandated program allows residents to use social security funds to pay for necessary dental care while Social Security covers the differential in cost.
If a senior's circumstances make them ineligible for coverage, a number of public and private programs can close this gap. Some counties and communities have public dental clinics or community health centers, which offer reduced-price or free care. Members of the public can find these services by contacting the appropriate public health department or through a free clinics search engine.
Similarly, a number of federally qualified health centers (FQHC's) or local hospitals offer dental care, though fees may vary. Areas with dental schools may also host clinics, which allow students to gain practical experience while working under the supervision of a qualified professional. There are also private dentists who offer services pro bono or volunteer their time at a nonprofit dental care outreach center.