Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO) |
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Characteristics-Select a primary care provider from a list of contracted dentists -Employees receive all treatment from primary dentist, unless the dentist authorizes a referral to a specialists. -Most DHMOs provide preventive dental care at no charge, while other services require a co-pay. -DHMOs pays their participating dentist a monthly fee per patient assigned to the practice whether or not treatment is provided -These plans are sometimes called "pre-paid" with the dentist assuming the financial risk. Advantages -The least expensive dental plans -Low co-payment or no payment for routine dental treatment. Disadvantages -Patients have limited choice of dentist and dental specialists -Turnover of DHMOs is often high. -Limited access to care: dentist is paid whether or not patient receives care -Non-routine services often require substantial patient co-payment Purchase Considerations -Make sure the DHMO has offices in you employees area. -Visit the office, and interview the provider. Ask about: waiting periods, access, what is considered routine and non-routine, ask to see provider’s fee schedule for non-routine dental cares, and ask about the turnover rate. -Request a copy of the DHMO’s contract |
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Return to The Nuts & Bolts of Dental Insurance Top ©1998, Jeffrey Kohlhardt DDS, 1204 Cottonwood Street, Suite 4
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