Employees rely on dental coverage as a key part of the benefits package
Studies have shown that regular dental exams don’t just improve oral health, they improve an employee’s peace of mind and overall attitude, often leading to increased productivity. However, visiting the dentist or orthodontist without financial help can put a huge strain on your employees’ budgets. JPA helps solve this problem with a wide range of affordable dental plan options with varying deductibles, coinsurance, and maximums out-of-pockets. These plans offer offer a variety of diagnostic, preventative care, restorative and corrective services, in addition to orthodontia. Learn more below.
JPA works with a variety of dental insurance carriers who have the largest dental provider networks in the country.
Types of group dental plans available:
Dental Preferred Provider Organization (DPPO)
DPPO members have the flexibility to choose providers from a vast network of quality dental providers and facilities, and specialists of their choosing without a referral. These plans are often more expensive than a DHMO for this reason. Although keep in mind some services may not be covered if providers outside the network are used. Services may also not be covered if deductibles are not first met. Most plans provide for yearly cleanings and x-rays outside of the deductible with a small or ZERO copay.
Dental Health Maintenance Organizations (DHMO)
A DHMO may be a cost-effective way for your employees to get quality dental care without paying a high premium. This plan is limited to a predetermined network of dentists and orthodontists, and requires members to appoint a primary dental care provider who will refer a specialist within the network when deemed necessary. Some services may be only partially covered or often, not covered at all when outside providers are used. Most plans provide for yearly cleanings and x-rays outside of the deductible with a small or ZERO copay.
Dental Point of Service (DPOS)
DPOS plans combine features of DHMOs and DPPOs. Most DPOS plans require members to choose a primary dental care provider from within the DPOS network, but will often, depending on the plan, allow them the flexibility to use out-of-network specialists with or without a referral. Because of this flexibility, there is potential for higher out-of-pocket costs with this plan option. As with most of our dental plan options, a DPOS can offer free or low-cost routine exams and cleanings.
Dental Exclusive Provider Organization (EPO)
DEPOs only cover services from providers within it’s network, offering no benefits for out-of-network care, except in emergencies. DEPO plans are known for offering direct access to specialists without needing referrals and generally lower out-of-pocket costs than Dental Preferred Provider Organization (DPPO) plans. Preventative services such as cleanings and x-rays are generally free or have a small copay.
Funding Options for Group Dental
Level funded health plans have savings potential similar to a self-funded plan, in addition to tax advantages that can save both employer and employee money. Additionally, offering dental insurance on a voluntary basis, or offering discount dental plans are also cost saving strategies employed by JPA to help offset the cost of high health care. We can help you determine which option is best for you and your employees, based on your unique needs.
