why is arestin not covered by insurance
Introduction
Arestin is a locally administered antibiotic used for the treatment of periodontitis, a common type of gum disease. Despite its effectiveness in treating the disease, Arestin is not always covered by insurance. This has become a matter of concern for many patients who rely on their insurance to cover the costs of their medical treatments. In this article, we will explore some of the reasons why Arestin is not covered by insurance.
Main Reasons why Arestin is not covered
Insurance is that it is considered a relatively new drug. Arestin was approved by the FDA in 2001, which means that it has been on the market for less than 20 years. Insurance companies tend to be cautious when it comes to covering new drugs because they want to see evidence of their safety and effectiveness. Since Arestin is a relatively new drug, insurance companies may not be convinced of its efficacy, even though it has been shown to be effective in clinical trials.
Another reason why Arestin may not be covered
Insurance is that it is classified as a medical device rather than a drug. Arestin is delivered through a small syringe that is placed directly into the gum pocket, where it releases the antibiotic over time. Because it is a medical device, it is subject to different regulations and reimbursement rules than drugs. Insurance companies may be more reluctant to cover medical devices because they are often more expensive than drugs and may require special training or expertise to administer.
In addition to these factors, insurance coverage for Arestin may also be impacted by the policies of individual insurance companies. Each insurance company has its own list of approved drugs and treatments, which is known as a formulary. These formularies can vary widely between companies, and some may not include Arestin. This means that even if a patient has insurance, their policy may not cover the cost of Arestin.
Despite the lack of insurance coverage, many patients find Arestin to be an effective treatment for periodontitis. The drug has been shown to reduce pocket depth and improve gum health in patients with the disease. However, without insurance coverage, the cost of treatment can be prohibitive for some patients. Depending on the number of gum pockets that need treatment, the cost of Arestin can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars.
If Arestin is not covered by your insurance
There are some options that may help to make the cost of treatment more manageable. Many dental offices offer financing plans or payment arrangements to help patients pay for their treatments over time. You may also be able to find coupons or discounts for Arestin online or through the manufacturer.
It is important to note that while Arestin may not be covered by insurance, it is still a valuable treatment option for periodontitis. The disease can cause serious complications if left untreated, including tooth loss and bone damage. Arestin can help to reduce the inflammation and infection that cause periodontitis, leading to better overall oral health.
If you are experiencing symptoms of periodontitis, such as bleeding gums, bad breath, or loose teeth, it is important to seek treatment from a dental professional as soon as possible. While Arestin may not be covered by insurance, there are many other treatment options available, including deep cleaning, oral antibiotics, and surgical intervention in more severe cases.
In conclusion
the lack of insurance coverage for Arestin can make the cost of treatment for periodontitis prohibitive for some patients. However, there are still options available to help make the cost more manageable, and it is important to seek treatment for the disease in order to prevent further complications. If you have questions about Arestin or other treatment options for periodontitis, be sure to speak with your dental professional.
