Innovative Partnership Focuses on Triple Aim: Improve Dental Care, Ensure Access and Manage Costs
DentaQuest Begins Management of TennCare Dental Benefits
<0> DentaQuestLana Taussig, 615-577-1129 </0>
DentaQuest has begun administration of the dental benefits program for TennCare, Tennessee’s Medicaid program, managing the dental benefits for approximately 750,000 children who receive benefits through TennCare, effective October 1, 2013.
“Since being awarded the contract in April after a competitive bid process, we’ve been working with TennCare over the past five months to prepare for the transition,” said Dr. John Luther, chief dental officer for DentaQuest. “We believe that, in partnership with the state, we have in place an innovative program that is designed to be highly accountable to the people of Tennessee and provides program participants with a high-quality, statewide dental network committed to offering the right care, by the right provider and at the right time.”
TennCare’s contract with DentaQuest is risk-bearing, meaning that a portion of DentaQuest’s fees for administering the program are “at risk,” or dependent on achievement of access, quality and efficiency objectives for the new network. The contract with DentaQuest is for a three-year period, with two one-year extension options.
“This arrangement is different,” added Dr. Luther. “It better aligns with where health care in general is going by focusing on programs that can measure and improve care, enhance access to that care for those who need it, while also being mindful of managing overall program costs in a responsible manner. DentaQuest has the responsibility, oversight and incentive to manage a right-sized network of dentists that provide quality, cost-effective care to TennCare members.”
Prior to the October 1 program effective date, DentaQuest communicated to TennCare beneficiaries introducing them to the new program. Members have received a welcome letter and handbook, which will be followed by subsequent communication including a provider directory, dental home information and appointment and check-up reminders.
For more information, TennCare members and dental providers can visit . Members can call TennCare Member Services at 1-855-418-1622. A Provider Information Line is available for dentists at 1-855-418-1623.
DentaQuest is a leading dental benefits administrator, providing cost-effective administration in every arena of dental benefits, including group, individual, Medicaid, CHIP, and Medicare Advantage. Through its emphasis on prevention, DentaQuest is creating an environment of better oral health for more than 18 million members across the United States. DentaQuest is a partner in the community and committed to improving oral health through access, innovation and affordability. Learn more at .
TennCare is the state of Tennessee’s Medicaid program that provides health care for 1.2 million Tennesseans.