Health Plans Required to Offer Pediatric Dental Care
Because pediatric dental care is so critical to a person’s overall health, the Affordable Care Act made it one of the 10 essential health benefits (EHBs) that health plans must offer to small employers.
As a result, many employers will face a common dilemma: Should they keep their standalone dental plan or switch to coverage that’s embedded with a medical plan?
Strengths of Standalone Dental Care
Although embedding pediatric benefits with a medical plan may seem like a convenient option, a standalone plan from The Standard may be more attractive to employees. Here are some reasons why.
| Deductible | Out-Of-Pocket Maximum | Choice Of Dental Care Provider | Expertise | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medical With Embedded Pediatric Dental | Medical deductible may have to be satisfied before dental benefits are paid | May be higher due to combined medical and dental max | Employees may need to switch dentists to continue receiving in-network value | With a medical provider, pediatric dental may be treated as an add-on |
| The Standard's EHB-Compliant Plan | Deductible is for dental only | Typically lower out-of pocket maximum | Employees can take advantage of one of the largest dental PPO networks in the nation | We’ve been providing dental benefits for 30 years – you can rely on our expertise |
In addition, standalone dental benefits can offer:
- Higher benefit levels
- Preventative treatments that do not count toward the deductible
- Cosmetic orthodontia
Not All Dental Plans Are Equal
When you choose The Standard, you get a dental plan that comes with the convenience of online administration and member access, as well one of the nation’s largest dental provider networks.
The Strength of the Ameritas Network
Our Dental insurance relies on one of the largest dental networks in the nation, with more than 300,000 access points across the country. Of course, our plan also gives members the freedom to choose any dentist they like.
Online Convenience for Plan Administrators
- Enroll employees, change or terminate employee coverage, order a bill and pay online
- View employee effective dates, coverage levels and more
- Easily view or print the policy and certificates
Online Access for Members
- Benefit summary
- Claims forms, status and details
- Electronic certificates and Explanation Of Benefits
- Network provider directory, also available as a mobile app
- Frequently asked questions, glossary and more
Great Service
Our friendly, well-trained service representatives are here to help your employees when they need it. Customer service representatives are available Monday – Thursday, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday, 5 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pacific time.
Contact us today to learn more about pediatric dental benefits from The Standard.