In-network refers to dental professionals contracted with your Ameritas dental insurance to provide services at predetermined rates. These rates are most often lower than you may pay out-of-pocket, significantly reducing costs. Network dentists offer more significant cost savings and are usually held to higher standards through both credentialing and quality management programs, confirming an elevated level of care. Additionally, the dental office usually manages all claims submissions and related paperwork, simplifying the entire process for you.
Before scheduling your dental work, verify that the dental office is part of your plan’s network. You can easily request a current list of network dentists from customer care at Ameritas to ensure you are making informed choices.
Concerns about cost are quite often the reason people postpone going to the dentist. Research has shown that most people have less than $1,000 available for unexpected expenses. They use their credit card to cover unexpected bills that exceed their monthly budgets, often for health and dental procedures.
As an Ameritas dental insurance member, you can estimate your dental costs before seeing your dentist. You can also save money by visiting network providers. Review these suggestions usingthe Ameritas Dental Cost Estimator tools.
The Importance of Out-of-Network Awareness
Opting for out-of-network dental services means choosing a dentist who has not agreed to the Ameritas dental insurance plan’s contracted rates. As a result, these services are usually more costly, and the insurance plan will typically cover a smaller percentage of these higher charges. This can lead to a greater risk of balance billing and higher out-of-pocket expenses. Not only will you most likely pay more at the time of service, but you are at risk of hitting your annual plan maximum more quickly, potentially limiting access to additional care needed within the same year.
Understanding the financial implications of choosing an out-of-network dental provider is crucial to managing dental care costs effectively. It is recommended to first check whether providers are in-network to minimize your expenses and maximize your insurance benefits.
Why Check Your Coverage Regularly?
Even if a dental provider is in-network, not all procedures may be covered with your specific plan. Always verify coverage with Ameritas before proceeding with any treatment to avoid unexpected surprises. Additionally, reviewing your specific plan’s details for deductibles and coinsurance requirements is wise, especially since most Ameritas dental plans offer preventive care coverage.
Enhancing Your Dental Insurance Knowledge
Learning more about your dental plan and available tools will lead to more accessible benefits and manageable expenses. As an Ameritas member, you can easily access your benefits information through your member account or in the Ameritas Benefits app. Review the details of your plan regularly and consult Ameritas customer service to clarify any uncertainties. To assist you with estimating potential costs, you can use the Ameritas Dental Cost Estimator, which will provide detailed insights into what you may expect to pay for assorted services.
By keeping these guidelines in mind, you can more comfortably make informed decisions about your dental care and make sure you fully leverage the benefits available.