Online tools shed light on the cost of dental services, help consumers make more informed health care decisions
MILWAUKEE – Feb. 22, 2016 – A recent Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield survey* found many people knowingly neglect their dental health. Only half of those surveyed (50 percent) visit their dentist as often as recommended.
A fear of surprise costs might be the reason – four in 10 (40 percent) did not know that insurance would cover preventive visits, and many worry that they are going to get an unexpected bill at the end of their appointment or that the dentist will find an expensive problem.
In response to these consumer concerns, for the first time ever, consumers with an Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield dental plan can get information about costs before they ever walk into the dentist’s office.
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield has launched Dental Care Cost Estimator, a web-based tool that provides estimates for common dental procedures and treatments, and Dental Health Assessment, which helps members better understand their oral health and predict their risk of developing tooth decay, gum disease, tooth wear and oral cancer.
“At Anthem, we know consumers are concerned about their dental health and what it will cost, which is why we’ve created Dental Care Cost Estimator and Dental Health Assessment, to go along with one of the largest dental networks in the nation,” said Mike Malouf, president of Anthem’s dental business. “Those who use Anthem networks save, on average, 30-32 percent on their covered dental services. And now for the first time members can go to www.anthem.com/mydentalvision to estimate their costs in advance and comparison shop to find the best value. We are simplifying health care so that our members can focus on their health.”
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield is making it easier for consumers to stay on top of their health. Ninety percent of diseases show signs and symptoms in the mouth (Source: Academy of General Dentistry Know Your Teeth.com, January 2012). Getting a regular checkup might reveal an underlying health problem that can be more easily treated because of early detection.
Anthem Whole Health ConnectionSM connects the dots between oral health and overall health and increases communication between the Anthem member’s dentist and other doctors. For example, a dental checkup may reveal signs of a serious disease such as diabetes. This information is accessible by the member’s other doctors. Only Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield offers this integrated approach which results in better, more comprehensive care for the member.
More information on dental insurance and integrated benefits is available at www.specialtybenefits.info/wi.