A Missouri pediatric dentist and ADA member is calling on Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., to support legislation aimed at ensuring insurance coverage for medically necessary treatment of congenital anomalies and birth defects. 

In an opinion article from The Kansas City Star, Aaron Bumann, D.D.S., said the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act, or ELSA, would help families whose children need long-term treatment for conditions such as cleft lip, cleft palate and other medically significant facial differences. 

Dr. Bumann wrote that children with congenital anomalies may require years of reconstructive surgery, dental procedures, orthodontic care and related therapies. Families can face insurance denials for treatments their specialists consider medically necessary because of coverage restrictions or age limits, he said. 

ELSA would require many group health plans and insurers to cover medically necessary treatment related to congenital anomalies and birth defects affecting the eyes, ears, teeth, mouth or jaw, including certain reconstructive procedures and associated dental care. 

“Missouri families should not have to spend years fighting for treatments that medical experts have already determined are necessary. Sen. Hawley can help change that by supporting passage of [ELSA] and helping ensure that every Missouri child has the opportunity to receive the care they need to live healthy, confident lives,” Dr. Bumann concluded.  

Ask your members of Congress to cosponsor ELSA here.

Read more: The Kansas City Star