Delta Dental providing premium credits to clients, network dentists in July

HealthcareNews Briefs

by Talk Business & Politics staff ([email protected]) May 14, 2020 1:25 pm 1,134 views 

Delta Dental of Arkansas is providing financial assistance to its business clients and network dentists as Arkansans continue to feel the impact of COVID-19 on their businesses.

The Pandemic Relief Credit gives a credit in the amount equal to 100% of the monthly premium billed to Delta Dental’s commercial business clients with dental and vision insurance. This premium “holiday” amounts to almost $15 million in credits to over 4,000 Arkansas business clients.

No action is required from Delta Dental clients. Fully insured and self-insured business customers will see the credit on their July 2020 bill. The bill for July premiums will be $0. However, any outstanding premiums or adjustments for months prior to July or after billing cutoff will be applicable.

“We understand our customers are facing tremendous challenges and want to help them with a premium credit,” said President and CEO Ed Choate. “Delta Dental of Arkansas provides dental and vision insurance to over 4,000 Arkansas businesses and more than 800,000 Arkansans. With dental and vision offices closed except for emergencies, our members have not been able to get the care they normally receive. This premium credit is one of many ways we’re working to financially help our customers and communities during this unprecedented time.”

In addition to the credit, Delta Dental is also helping network dental practices by making $2.9 million in grants available to dental providers as their offices began re-opening May 11.

The grants are designed to help dental practitioners offset additional expenses incurred as a result of the Phase I COVID-19 guidelines from the Arkansas Department of Health. These guidelines require increased use of Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) and additional cleaning and disinfecting of all dental treatment rooms.

Every active licensed dentist with a practice located in Arkansas who is part of a Delta Dental network can request a $2,500 grant by completing a brief online form that can be found at this link.