Gov. Matt Bevin's proposed changes to the state's Medicaid program would end routine dental and vision coverage for able-bodied adults in a state where more than half of population over 18 have had a tooth extracted because of decay or gum disease.
Bevin administration officials say the changes will only apply to able-bodied adults. Dental and vision benefits for children, pregnant women, medically frail adults and adults who qualify for the traditional Medicaid program will not change.
And they say able-bodied adults won't lose access to routine dental services because they can earn those benefits back by taking a health assessment, volunteering or getting a job.
But dentists and health advocates worry the changes will discourage people from getting the type of care that can prevent more painful and expensive health problems.