Episode #291: Should I Accept Assignment of Benefits Once we are Out of Network?

  1. May 09, 2024
In this episode the hosts tackle a common dilemma faced by dental practices transitioning out of network: should they accept the assignment of benefits? They begin by elucidating the significance of this term in dental insurance processes, where accepting the assignment of benefits means authorizing the insurance company to send the reimbursement check directly to the dental practice rather than to the patient.
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In this episode of the Less Insurance Dependence Podcast, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah tackle a common dilemma faced by dental practices transitioning out of network: should they accept the assignment of benefits? They begin by elucidating the significance of this term in dental insurance processes, where accepting the assignment of benefits means authorizing the insurance company to send the reimbursement check directly to the dental practice rather than to the patient.

The hosts discuss the variability in policies among insurance companies, particularly focusing on the restrictive nature of Delta Dental regarding the acceptance of the assignment of benefits. They emphasize the importance of checking with insurance companies about their policies post-transitioning out of the network, as some may need to allow practices to accept the assignment of benefits for in-state patients.

Despite the challenges, Gary and Naren advocate for a patient-friendly approach even after transitioning out of the network. They stress the importance of making processes easy for patients and disagree with consultants who suggest completely washing hands off insurance involvement post-transition. Instead, they recommend maintaining a level of involvement in insurance processes to provide better customer service to patients.  Take advantage of this opportunity to be part of the conversation and gain fresh insights into the future of dental care. Tune in now and empower yourself with knowledge!

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Episode Timestamps

  • 00:50 – Introduction to “The Less Insurance Dependence” podcast.
  • 01:20 – Introduction to the topic: “Should I Accept Assignment of Benefits Once we are Out of Network?”
  • 01:31 – Announcement regarding a Master Class; Title:  Creating a Relationship Driven Practice, Date: 16th of July 2024, Time: 08:00 – 10:00 PM ET.
  • 04:59 – Discussion on what it means to accept assignment of benefit.  
  • 11:03 – Discussion on the steps to follow once after dropping an insurance plan.
  • 14:59 – Emphasis on a patient friendly approach in practice. 
  • 17:38 – Invitation for a Coaching Strategy Meeting.
  • 18:51 – Invitation for a Marketing Strategy Meeting.

Resources

Schedule a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa!

Schedule a Free Coaching Strategy Meeting with Gary Takacs!

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Gary Takacs

Gary Takacs One of Gary's most significant achievements as a dental practice management coach is transforming his own practice, LifeSmiles, from one that was infected with PPO plans, no effective marketing strategy, and an overhead of 80% to a very successful dental practice that is currently one of the top-performing practices in the US.

With over 2,200 coaching clients, Gary has first-hand experience transforming insurance-dependent practices into thriving and profitable practices.

Through his Personalized Coaching Program, Gary shares access to the systems, strategies, processes, and experience gained over 41 years of coaching dentists and transforming over 2200 practices worldwide.

Learn More: www.thrivingdentist.com/coaching/
Connect with Gary Takacs on Linkedin

Naren Arulrajah

Naren ArulrajahAs CEO of Ekwa Marketing, Naren has over a decade of experience working with dental practices and helping them attract the ideal type of patients to their practices. It is his goal to help dentists do more of the type of dentistry they love with the help and support of effective digital marketing.

Ekwa’s "Done-For-You" Digital Marketing model blends fundamental persuasion principles with an all-in-one Digital Marketing solution to help your ideal patients find you and choose you for reasons other than being on their insurance plan.

If you’re interested in finding out if Ekwa is the right fit for you and your practice, book a Free Marketing Strategy Meeting with Ekwa’s Marketing Director, Lila Stone.

Book Free Marketing Strategy Meeting: www.lessinsurancedependence.com/marketing-strategy-meeting/

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