Monday, January 16, 2017

Are Low Cost Dental Plans Really Worth It?

By Marie Reynolds


Over the past 10 years, about one in four people have put off seeing a dentist for treatment simply because they could not afford it. Dental fees have risen by as much as 20% during this time. And special healthcare programs have been started to make insurance more accessible, it doesn't necessarily mean that one can find a suitable model. These are some of the reasons why low cost dental plans AL have become increasingly popular in recent years.

A dental discount plan is basically a membership-based incentive program aimed at helping individuals and families pay for treatment. The program will usually involve a network of dentists who agree to reduce the cost of their services to plan members. From the provider's perspective, the program works to their advantage because patients pay for services in cash.

Dental benefits plans can be designed in many ways. But while features may differ across programs, most of them will fall into one of 2 basic models. There are free-for-service models, where dentists are tasked with determining the fees payable for each procedure. Managed care programs will integrate the financing and delivery of health care to covered individuals. This could involve a defined policy for the selection of health care providers or incentives for members to use contracted clinics.

With a discount card, you can pay for treatment for any member of your household. From your older dependents to senior relatives living in your house, everyone can use the card to pay for the procedures they need. Speaking of procedures, these plans don't have any restrictions on the kind of treatment you can receive. As such, you're free to use the card to pay for cosmetic dentistry if you need it. The programs are also quite user-friendly, with most of them offering customer service agents.

Unlike conventional dental insurance, discount programs don't have any annual limits on benefits. The former enforces the limits to ensure they pay out less than what they receive in premiums. Besides the freedom to use your membership card as often as you want, you'll also not have to worry about being excluded due to pre-existing conditions. Other benefits include no waiting periods, no paperwork hassles, no deductibles and the freedom to switch plans regularly.

The programs could be of great help for those seeking a solution that fits a more limited budget. Still, you need to do your homework. Be sure to look at the services included in each plan, as well as the network of clinics that will accept your cards. To find a cost effective plan, look for programs offering the best discounts, for the most affordable price. Some programs will try to entice new members by offering special incentives. If you find something you could use, you may want to choose that particular plan.

Discount cards are excellently suited for individuals with healthy teeth, but who still want some protection for emergency treatments. But you could still sign up if you already have exceeded the coverage limits of your current insurance cover. Keep in mind that most plans won't allow you to use the card when you already have a PPO or HMO insurance cover.

Although discount programs offer huge savings on dental costs, you still need to do your homework in order to reap the benefits. Your best bet would be to join a network that suits your healthcare needs and current budget. You could consult your dentist for advice and recommendations on suitable solutions as well.




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