Is this true about publicly funded health insurance?

[Joan.of.the.Arch]

Is it true that there are no federal or federal-state funded health insurances (Medicare, Medicaid, etc) that currently cover any kind of dental care or optometric & optical services? Surely there must be at least certain circumstances covered, especially since there is not always a clear-cut line between what is say, "dental," versus what is "medical."

[disneysteve]

That is not true, at least not here in NJ. Medicaid does cover dental care and eye care (though I don't know if it pays for glasses). One problem, though, is that very few dentists actually accept Medicaid. Just today, I saw a boy who had 2 huge cavities. I mentioned it to Mom and she said she has been trying to get in to see a dentist for 6 months and has been unable to find a dentist who accepts the insurance and will give her an appointment.

[jodi]

Ditto - I work with a disabled population, most of whom rely on Medicaid. The waiting lists for dental surgery are incredibly long - years. I believe Medicaid covers basic eye care and glasses, although I'm sure it is the cheapest frames available.
I did a search for a client's family for pediatric dentists who accept Medicaid in my county - none. And only one in the neighboring county.

[mom-from-missouri]

It is covered in Missouri

[Joan.of.the.Arch]

I found some info regarding my own state of Missouri. Dental services are not covered for adults on Medicaid (the poverty medical assistance) unless they are pregnant or blind. Children on Medicaid are covered for "early and periodic screening, diagnosis and treatment" regarding dental and vision. "Optometric services and eyeglasses" appear to be covered for all on Medicaid.

Medical Services - Medicaid

Each state administers the their federal dollars for Medicaid and has some leeway in what they do or do not cover. I know this has been a tough economic issue for the states in recent years.