The shingles vaccine provides a good model for a new kind of dental care which is emerging to better serve an older, more knowledgeable and sicker population.
The shingles vaccine is indicated for those at high risk of this acute infection — those over 60 years of age (older folks have difficulty generating immune cells to fight this infection).
It has a high level of efficacy — 50% immunity against the infection
It is not encouraged by insurers for those under age 60 simply because there is no evidence it is effective for younger people.
And lastly, it has met with a significant willingness to pay amongst older patients.
So what is the model?
Targeted prevention based on the clinical evidence, and a good response from the high risk patient to share in the cost of this preventive care.
Prevora has a higher level of protection than the Shingles Vaccine. In its most recent controlled study of 983 American adults, it reduced cavities in high risk participants by 70% (p less than 0.005) over one year.
So it is worth targeting Prevora to the high risk patient. And from all accounts, the patient is willing to pay and willing to refer friends and family for similar care.
By: Ross Perry
SOURCED: Partners In Prevention – http://partnersinprevention.ca/taking-a-page-from-the-shingles-vaccine/
