Comments on: In This Economy, Even Dental Insurance Patients Look Good

By: Dr. Enos-Galikios

Dr. Enos-Galikios — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 06:50:28 +0000

As a European Dentist it is appalling to see a column entitled “…Even Dental Insurance Patients Look good”.

In my country, it is a proud moment when we become doctors. We become doctors to provide care to families and their loved one. We do not set out in this profession to become wealthy even though many of us do earn a wealthy life-style.

It is important to remind all doctors in this world, that patients are our only reason for our practice and wealth, if it comes, is only a side effect of or activities.

By: E. SALISBURY, DDS

E. SALISBURY, DDS — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 16:25:15 +0000

Dr. Schlie is absolutely correct. First, even when you print the patient’s benefits from the insurance company, especially Delta, the info is often vague as to what they will pay for;re:they don’t tell you that fixed bridge-work is not covered or whether it is a old hole policy and in tiny light blue print near the bottom of the page directs you to another site which is still vague by saying every thing not stated is not covered.
Why hasn’t the dental industry recognized that most dental insurance is the biggest scam being perpertrated on the public, no matter who is paying the premium. Premiums keep increasing, but the benefit level stays the same. These levels have not changed for 20 or 30 years or more. The public has to be made aware of this scam and should be done on a national level, unfortunenatly none of the national dental organizations have the balls to go against the likes of dental insurance companies, especially Dental.
It is easier to accept PPO’s because there are usually no restrictions or paperwork involved.
When we do not stand up to the insurance companies, we are handing over control of our profession to people who don’t care about the welfare of the patients. This is a travesty!!!

By: Craig A. Schlie

Craig A. Schlie — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 16:06:55 +0000

As a former consultant to Delta Dental of California, I would advise that no one ever believe anything that Delta says unless it is corroborated.

Craig A. Schlie, DDS, AFAAID

By: Dr. Ron Schefdore

Dr. Ron Schefdore — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 11:57:47 +0000

I really like your information and advice. How can I get your opinion on a project I am working on with dentists. Our pilot study of 100 dental offices was very successful and I want to an opinion of any flaws with the program before launching it nationwide

Thanks for your time
Dr. Ron Schefdore

By: Dr. Jon Stone

Dr. Jon Stone — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 11:13:06 +0000

We participate in three dental insurance programs, or as it should be properly termed ‘benefit’ programs. My front office person prints a benefit breakdown for EVERY patient that is scheduled for the day. (These benefits are easily attained from the programs website.) Most benefit printouts also have maximum and deductible information as well. This way, we can tell the patient, during treatment, of their benefits. We find this is a great way to utilize their benefits to the maximum. Of course, I don’t limit treatment because of the benefits, I just try to use the benefits the patient has.