Make OTC Oral Care Products Eligible
Oral care is a critical component of health, yet over-the-counter oral health products that prevent conditions such as gingivitis and cavities are not eligible for reimbursement with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Accounts (HSA). Recognizing this gap, a new bill has been introduced in the House of Representatives aimed at expanding FSA and HSA eligibility to include over-the-counter oral health products.
H.R.8599 – “To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to include over-the-counter oral healthcare products as qualified medical expenses which can be purchased with HSA and FSA funds”, if passed into law, will allow over-the-counter oral health products such as toothbrushes, water flossers, and other anticaries, antiplaque, and antigingivitis drug products to be purchased using FSA and HSA funds. This legislation acknowledges the importance of maintaining oral health and reducing the incidence of dental diseases, which can have serious health implications and lead to higher healthcare costs over the long term.
The proposed bill highlights the disparity between current tax-free healthcare benefits and the need for comprehensive oral care. While FSAs and HSAs cover dental treatments, they do not account for the preventative measures that can significantly reduce the need for such treatments for the 70+ Americans who utilize these accounts.
Take Action
Change at the legislative level starts with your voice! Contact your member of Congress today to voice your support for HR 8599, and the expansion of FSA and HSA eligibility to over-the-counter oral care products!