First of all, it’s worth noting that the majority of employer-sponsored health insurance plans do not include provisions for dental.
Health insurance is the bedrock of many employee benefits programs. However, something that might not be part of that package is just as important: dental insurance. Dental care is often categorized differently from its mainline counterpart; it requires a separate policy that does not overlap. We’re here to answer some of your common questions about how this all shakes out!
Can Employer-Sponsored Programs Offer Substantial Dental Coverage?
First of all, it’s worth noting that the majority of employer-sponsored health insurance plans do not include provisions for dental. Thus, routine dental care doesn’t fall under this umbrella. Instead, that coverage extends to medically urgent treatments and procedures that protect and preserve your health. If you need fillings or crowns, those are going to be out-of-pocket costs. On the other hand, major dental and oral surgeries are covered, so diseases affecting the facial bones, treatment of jaw disorders, and corrections for facial deformities are covered.
What About the Healthcare Marketplace?
Meanwhile, the Affordable Care Act established some new regulations that weren’t in the picture before. For example, every plan sold through the government-backed healthcare insurance marketplace must apply to “essential health benefits.” Dental care for adults is excluded from this caveat, but care for children still counts under Obamacare’s rules. However, these health insurance plans are typically only available during the open enrollment period or special enrollment periods as they are offered.
Does Medicare Cover Dental Insurance?
Medicare helps many people afford decent health coverage. However, the original version of Medicare doesn’t include what is usually deemed as “routine dental care,” although some forms of emergency dental care are indeed covered. Likewise, regular checkups and cleanings are not part of this benefits package. On the other hand, medical Supplement Insurance, also known as MedSup or Medigap, has been a boon to those who desperately need it. The Medicare Advantage is another option with similar perks.
What About Medicaid Coverages?
Medicaid is a counterpart of Medicare. However, it does not carry a reputation for dental care coverage. State-level agencies are only obligated to extend coverage to children, but adults (perhaps their parents) are ineligible. Sometimes, only the bare minimum coverages are on offer. Some plans even go so far as to cover cleanings, X-rays, fillings, extractions, crowns, and root canals.
A Customer Testimonial
This week, we’d like to tell you about Heather Porzillo’s experience with our services. “I’ve been working with Drew Skibitsky since The MWE Partnership began servicing the Aflac account for Anne Arundel Workforce Development Corporation several years ago. Drew helped us get back on track with claims auditing and true Open Enrollments, providing personal service at each of our locations throughout Anne Arundel County.” There is still more to say, but thank you very much, Heather!
Get Your Voluntary, Supplemental, and Health Insurance Policies with the MWE Partnership!
Are you a business looking to provide your employees with essential voluntary benefits? If so, look no further than The MWE Partnership. When you choose The MWE Partnership, you get experienced service and comprehensive voluntary benefit options that will meet all your employees’ needs. With over 17 years of experience, The MWE Partnership is your one-stop shop for all your supplemental benefit needs. If you are interested in finding out how The MWE Partnership can help your business, contact us today! We encourage you to like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn for all the latest voluntary benefit news!