Eight out Ten Dentists want more focus on patient care
A recent poll showed 80 percent of dentists want dental patient care to become the focus of insurance dental plans.
The American Dental Association (ADA) reported that Massachusetts passed a ballot measure on Election Day that changed insurance carrier requirements. Carriers have to spend a minimum of 83% premium dollars on patient care instead of on administrative costs, salaries and profits. If an insurance company fails to meet this requirement, they have to refund the difference to covered individuals and groups.
What could similar dental patient care mean for the rest of the country?
The ADA conducted a poll of more than 1,100 dentists across the nation. More than 80% of dentists in other states also were interested in a grassroots movement for dental plans that focused on dental patient care.
If other states follow Massachusetts’s example and pass similar insurance laws, it could mean more economical dental plans for patients.
Dentists would be happier as well, as it would result in more patients being able to afford dental work.
In addition, the following were other findings from the poll:
- Dentists reported that their appointments schedules were 85% full
- The causes in appointment drops were cancellations, patient no-shows and less appointments being scheduled
- There has been a decline in demand for hygienists, dental assistants and administrative staff
- Overall, dentists were confident in the economy remaining stable
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ADA has conducted polls regularly to discover the pandemic’s effect on the practice of dentistry.
Do you have concerns about your dental health?
Our friendly staff at Hutto Hippo Family Dental is happy help you and answer your questions. We don’t believe in making patients wait. Your time is valuable, and we know that. We’ll strive to get you in to see the dentist as soon as possible.
Give us a call to make an appointment. Our number is (512) 806-7740.
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