New data shows Delta Dental continues to offer largest nationwide network of dentists

OAK BROOK, Illinois--A new report shows that Delta Dental maintains the largest network of dentists in the nation.

Delta Dental has held this position as the nation's largest dental benefit system for more than five decades.

The report by NetMinder, an independent firm that provides data on providers and managed care networks to the health-care industry, indicates that the Delta Dental Premier network has more than 128,500 dentists. This is more than 62,000 dentists than the next closest national competitor.

"Now more than ever employers and employees are looking for ways to save money" said Kim Volk, president and CEO of Delta Dental Plans Association. "By having the largest network of dentists in the nation, Delta Dental is able to offer our 54 million subscribers unparalleled convenience and tremendous cost savings through negotiated discounts. Our network helped employers save more than $6.6 billion in decreased claims costs last year."

Delta Dental offers comprehensive benefits packages that combine cost-saving managed care features with flexible plan designs. Enrollees realize out-of-pocket savings from its "no balance billing" provision.

Under this provision, dentists in the Delta Dental network accept negotiated fees as payment in full, and can't pass costs along to patients for any differences between submitted charges and the charges allowed under Delta Dental's contractual agreements. Enrollees seeking services from network dentists only have to pay deductibles and copayments required by their plans.

Delta Dental also regularly audits its network to ensure that participating dentists meet comprehensive credentialing standards.

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