Our team will be very happy to help you maximize your insurance benefits. We can contact your insurance carrier and obtain a copy of your benefits so that we can use it to plan for treatment and identify any out-of pocket expenses that you will incur.
We will file your insurance claims electronically with all the proper documentation in order to get them paid as quickly as possible. Insurance carriers provide estimates that are not guaranteed, so we will always be honest and upfront about possible concerns that may add to your expenses. We will do our best to support you in getting every dollar your insurance policy should provide for your dental care.
Insurance Facts and Myths
Unbelievable Fact:
In the 1970’s, companies provided their employees dental benefits of $1000 per calendar year to keep premiums reasonable. Forty years later, most plans still have the same maximum limit, $1000. Adjusting for the cost of living and inflation, yearly maximum should now be approximately $5000.
Believable Fact:
Premiums, of course have increased. Today there are a variety of plans with many different RESTRICTIONS and LIMITATIONS. One of these is “Network”. .. a contract whereby dentists agree to look out for the insurance company rather than the patient. Another is “LEAT” – least expensive alternative treatment.
A Good Thing for Our Patients:
Dr. Amie has always elected to avoid involvement with the dental insurance industry. Dental insurance companies are in business to make money. Therefore the industry would have dentists provide services as cheaply as possible. That is not for us! Dr. Amie prefers to have the ability to treat her patients with the best methods, materials, equipment, and support available. This means that she is a non-network dental provider so that the insurance company cannot dictate treatment. She can treat you the same way she would treat her own family members!
What Does This Mean To Patients?
If you have insurance, it is beneficial, but it will not pay 100% of your dental expenses. The maximum yearly coverage may not provide adequate support. The Restrictions and Limitations may keep you from gaining all the support you desire. The insurance company will make more money by paying fewer benefits and using stalling tactics to avoid making payment at all.
Myth:
Usual and Customary Fees – Insurance companies tell their subscribers that they have a fee schedule that represents “the going rate”. This is false. Insurance companies do not survey the community to determine the actual fees local dentists are charging. Usual and Customary Fees is determined by the insurance company to lower the amount you receive.
Another Good Thing for Our Patients:
We are on your side. We will do everything we can to assist you in receiving all insurance benefits for which you are entitled. Our fee schedule is usual and customary. We do the surveys to stay informed as to what “the going rate” is. We are competitive and very busy. We want to stay in business. We will be fair and honest in our relationship with you!
