insurance

Insurance Information

Our insurance coordinators deal with many different insurance companies. Some companies offer as many as six different dental and medical plans. Some companies combine dental and medical coverage. This insurance alphabet soup changes policies and guidelines weekly. At times, it is almost impossible to accurately estimate our patient's insurance co-payment. Many insurance companies will not give out fees until after the treatment is completed. Dealing with these companies can be difficult and time consuming. As a courtesy, we ask that you keep us informed of any change to your insurance. It is important that all information about you and your insurance be current.

Co-Payment - All co-payments are payable when you check in at the front desk.

HMO Patients - If a patient comes to us with a problem that they expect to be covered by medical insurance, (biopsies, tumors, TMJ, infections, jaw deformities) they must have a referral from their primary care physician. A referral from a dentist is not adequate for medical insurance coverage. Obtaining a medical referral is the patient's responsibility. We cannot obtain the referral for you, and the referral cannot be obtained retroactively. If you do not have a referral, we will be happy to see you on a cash basis, but your medical insurance company will not pay for your treatment.

Medicare Patients - Effective May 1, 2006 our practice has legally opted out of the Medicare Program. In accordance with the rules of the opt-out policy, we will not bill claims, nor can you self submit claims to Medicare, Medicare Choice, or secondary insurance policies subsequent to medicare.

Private and Group Insurance - As a courtesy, we will file your insurance claims for you. Upon receipt of an insurance payment, any balance due will be billed to you. If you have deposited an excessive co-payment, it will be refunded to you.

If you have any problems or questions, please ask our staff. They are well informed and up-to-date. Please call if you have any questions or concerns regarding your initial visit.