Massachusetts dentists told the Massachusetts Legislature they felt forced to join Delta Dental's Total Choice Preferred Provider Organization Oct. 30, according to WBJournal.com.
Here are five key points:
1. Massachusetts Dental Society President David Lustbader, DMD, told legislators dentists were given the choice in 2016 to sign up for the PPO within a month or deal with a "one-year lock-out." Delta Dental of Massachusetts President Dennis Leonard said while Delta Dental gave dentists that month to decide, the insurer later extended the deadline for another two months.
2. The dentists told officials the plan offers lower rates, resulting in them making financial cuts in other areas to stay afloat.
3. Mr. Leonard said the plan offers discounts that are beneficial to both families sand their employers. Mr. Leonard also countered the plan aligns with the state's goal of lowering healthcare costs.
4. The PPO, which was approved by insurance regulators in July, is the largest PPO in the state.
5. Attorney General Maura Healey is reviewing the claims the dentists made against Delta Dental. Regarding the Attorney General's review, Mr. Leonard did not provide a comment. He did say he is confident Delta Dental did everything "above board."
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Here are five key points:
1. Massachusetts Dental Society President David Lustbader, DMD, told legislators dentists were given the choice in 2016 to sign up for the PPO within a month or deal with a "one-year lock-out." Delta Dental of Massachusetts President Dennis Leonard said while Delta Dental gave dentists that month to decide, the insurer later extended the deadline for another two months.
2. The dentists told officials the plan offers lower rates, resulting in them making financial cuts in other areas to stay afloat.
3. Mr. Leonard said the plan offers discounts that are beneficial to both families sand their employers. Mr. Leonard also countered the plan aligns with the state's goal of lowering healthcare costs.
4. The PPO, which was approved by insurance regulators in July, is the largest PPO in the state.
5. Attorney General Maura Healey is reviewing the claims the dentists made against Delta Dental. Regarding the Attorney General's review, Mr. Leonard did not provide a comment. He did say he is confident Delta Dental did everything "above board."
More dental news:
7.4% of U.S. dentists are affiliated with DSOs: 5 things to know
5 key points on dental care's overall cost: 108M Americans lack dental insurance
Dr. Mehr Faisal earns recognition as Top Doctor in Miramar, Florida: 3 notes