Dentist Going Out of Network: A Sample Patient Letter
Losing your dentist can be unsettling. This sample letter helps dentists communicate clearly and professionally when they're no longer accepting a particular insurance plan. Remember to tailor this template to your specific circumstances and always consult with legal counsel to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
[Your Dental Practice Letterhead]
[Date]
[Patient Name] [Patient Address]
Subject: Important Update Regarding Your Dental Insurance Coverage at [Your Practice Name]
Dear [Patient Name],
This letter is to inform you of an important change regarding our participation with [Insurance Company Name] insurance. Effective [Date], our practice will no longer be in-network with [Insurance Company Name]. This decision was made after careful consideration and is not a reflection of your care or our relationship with you.
This change means that your [Insurance Company Name] insurance will no longer cover the cost of your dental treatments at our office in the same way as before. While we understand this may be inconvenient, we want to assure you that we remain committed to providing you with the highest quality dental care.
What This Means for You
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Out-of-Network Benefits: You will still likely have some out-of-network coverage with [Insurance Company Name]. We encourage you to contact them directly at [Phone Number] or [Website] to understand your specific benefits and the reimbursement process. They can explain your out-of-network coverage, including any deductibles, co-pays, and maximum benefits. We will be happy to provide you with a detailed breakdown of your treatment costs so you can file a claim with your insurance provider.
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Payment Options: We offer a range of payment options to accommodate our patients' needs. We are happy to discuss these options with you, including payment plans if necessary. We are committed to making your dental care as affordable and accessible as possible.
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Continuing Your Care: We value you as a patient and would welcome the opportunity to continue providing you with your dental care. We believe in building long-term relationships with our patients, and we hope you'll choose to remain under our care, despite the change in insurance participation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are my options if I can't afford out-of-network care?
We understand that out-of-network costs can be a concern. We are happy to work with you to create a payment plan that fits your budget. We can also provide you with information on financial assistance programs or other resources that might be available.
Will you still accept my insurance for future cleanings?
No, effective [Date], we will no longer be accepting [Insurance Company Name] for any services.
Why did you decide to go out-of-network?
This decision was made due to ongoing changes in the insurance landscape and the terms of our contract with [Insurance Company Name]. This allows us to better control our costs and continue to provide you with excellent care.
How will this affect my existing treatment plan?
We will discuss with you how to best proceed with your current treatment plan, considering your insurance coverage and payment options.
We value your understanding and appreciate your continued trust in our practice. Please don't hesitate to contact our office at [Phone Number] if you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation to discuss your options.
Sincerely,
[Your Name] [Your Title] [Your Dental Practice Name] [Your Contact Information]
This is a sample letter, and you should adjust it to accurately reflect your practice's policies and the specifics of your relationship with the patient and their insurance provider. Legal advice is strongly recommended.
