Delta Dental will launch a new, voluntary dental benefit program for AARP members beginning this month in Maryland, Texas and the District of Columbia, where more than 2.5 million AARP members are eligible.
The Delta Dental Plans of the District of Columbia, Pennsylvania and California will all collaborate in the administration of the new AARP Dental Insurance Plan with their affiliate, Atlanta-based Delta Dental Insurance Company, which underwrites the program.
Eligible AARP members will receive information about this new member benefit in direct mail with coverage details and instructions on how to sign up by Internet, phone, fax or mail.
Gary D. Radine, president and CEO of the holding company system that includes the Delta Dental Plans in the District of Columbia, Pennsylvania and California, as well as Delta Dental Insurance Company, said making affordable dental coverage available to people 50 and over is an exciting opportunity for Delta.
"Dental coverage for Americans without employer-sponsored benefits is limited and hard to find, which is why this affiliation with AARP fills such an important need," said Radine. "The AARP Dental Insurance Plan is an affordably priced benefit designed specifically to meet the oral health needs of the AARP membership."
AARP officials say the new program is being offered in direct response to member feedback and demand.
"AARP members are telling us that they want access to dental insurance. We are pleased to select Delta Dental, a leader in the dental insurance business, to provide this product," said Laura Rossman, director of New Product Development. "We know that dental health can be important to overall health for people who are 50 and over, and this product puts dental coverage within the reach of many members who do not now have access to this type of insurance."
AARP and Delta officials say the unique program design incorporates a three-year incentive arrangement with AARP subscribers, whereby the scope of benefits grows incrementally, while premiums are guaranteed to remain the same for the first three years of continuous enrollment.
"The plan is flexible while offering a great deal of choice to subscribers," said Radine. "Members can opt to stay with their current dentist or select a dentist from Delta's extensive network to optimize their coverage and reduce their out-of-pocket costs."
The program sets a $25 annual deductible and $1,000 annual maximum. It allows enrollees to see any licensed dentist, with additional savings available if a "DeltaPreferred Option USA" dentist is selected. Coverage is available for all AARP members and their families living in Maryland, Texas and the District of Columbia. Rates vary by region, and incentives will be available for pre-paying premiums.
"Internet administration and the growing popularity of the web among people who are 50 and older should prove valuable in making this program work," notes Radine. "Our dedicated web site for the AARP program provides an easy way to access program information and rates."
To learn more about the AARP Dental Insurance Plan, AARP members living within the three target areas can go on the web at: www.deltadentalins.com/aarp, or call 866/261-4275.
