Question: If I buy on the Exchange for my family, am I required to purchase a standalone pediatric dental plan from the Exchange if I have kids? I have heard it’s one of the essential benefits but it will not be “bundled” with the health benefits.

Answer: So far, no. Standalone pediatric dental coverage is optional. However, there could be more changes coming. As you say, pediatric dental is one of the essential benefits but Covered California chose not have it bundled with the health benefits. Many consumer advocates and others have pushed back saying this is not the intent of the law. Covered California may feel compelled to make an adjustment, but it appears to be too late to have the carriers imbed the dental benefits and submit new rates. We’ll see how the exchange board handles it at the next board meeting in August.