CMS approves Mich. dental coverage for adults, kids

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has approved Michigan's Healthy Michigan Plan, including dental coverage for adults and children.

The plan, which Gov. Rick Snyder signed into law in September, extends healthcare benefits to 322,000 low-income Michigan residents in spring 2014 and ultimately will cover nearly half a million residents, according to a press release.

By improving access to affordable health coverage, the plan also reduces uncompensated care that shifts costs onto businesses and taxpayers.

Applicants must be between the ages of 19 and 64, not currently eligible for Medicaid, not eligible for or enrolled in Medicare, and earning up to 133% of the federal poverty level (approximately $15,000 for single person and $34,000 for a family of four).

Health coverage under the plan includes both federally and state mandated essential health benefits and an adult dental benefit, which allows Michigan's Medicaid health plans to coordinate adult dental care for newly eligible people.