Two Decades of Transforming Dental Care in Virginia
DentaQuest Marks 20 Years of Partnership with Virginia
Enhancing oral healthcare for all through Cardinal Care Smiles.
DentaQuest, a prominent part of Sun Life U.S., has joined forces with the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) to celebrate an impressive milestone: two decades of collaboration. This partnership has provided access to comprehensive oral healthcare for countless individuals in Virginia.
Innovative Initiatives for Dental Care Accessibility
Back in 2005, DMAS rolled out an innovative initiative aimed at dental care for Medicaid beneficiaries. Originally known as Smiles For Children and now recognized as Cardinal Care Smiles, the program was a game-changer. It separated Medicaid dental services from traditional medical plans, tailoring a dental benefit that effectively addresses the specific needs of children and adults alike. By centralizing all dental services under a single administrator, it simplified the navigation process for members and fostered greater provider participation, ensuring more consistent use of essential dental services.
Widespread Impact of the Program
Today, this collaboration allows DentaQuest to serve around 1.8 million Virginians. Through this program, beneficiaries receive a variety of preventive and restorative dental services, significantly enhancing their overall oral health.
A Vision for Healthier Futures
“DentaQuest has taken pride in partnering with Virginia to expand access to quality dental care since 2005,” expressed David Healy, president of Sun Life U.S. Dental. “Together, we have marked significant achievements, such as extending coverage for expectant mothers and introducing comprehensive adult dental benefits. Our success is attributed to our collaboration with DMAS and the tireless dental providers in Virginia who cater to Medicaid members daily. We remain committed to this partnership and aspire to continue working toward a healthier future for all Virginians.”
Addressing Dental Care Challenges
In line with the goals of the state, DentaQuest is proactively reducing missed appointments and striving to establish a dental home for every Medicaid member. This initiative is akin to a primary care provider, ensuring members have dedicated case management to connect them with the resources necessary for achieving optimal dental health through personalized consultations. DentaQuest is also actively involved in recruiting dentists and specialists to strengthen the Virginia Medicaid dental provider network.
Collaborative Progress and Future Goals
“For 20 years, our partnership with DentaQuest has significantly advanced our mission to guarantee access to quality dental care for Virginia's Medicaid members,” stated Justin Gist, DMAS's dental program manager. “DentaQuest's commitment to member-centered care and community involvement has been essential in enhancing oral health outcomes across Virginia. We proudly celebrate this milestone and eagerly anticipate continued advancements in the coming years.”
About DentaQuest
Sun Life U.S. Dental, which encompasses DentaQuest, is devoted to enhancing the oral health of everyone through purpose-driven and outcome-focused solutions. With a focus on Preventistry®, they aim to provide comprehensive, preventive care while fostering valuable relationships within the healthcare community. They manage dental and vision benefits for over 35 million Americans, delivering cost-effective plans for employer groups, individuals, and government programs. DentaQuest holds the position as the largest Medicaid and CHIP dental benefits administrator in the United States, extending services to underrepresented populations through their network of dental practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cardinal Care Smiles?
Cardinal Care Smiles is Virginia's Medicaid dental program that provides tailored dental benefits specific to the needs of children and adults.
How many Virginians are served by DentaQuest?
DentaQuest provides around 1.8 million Virginians with Medicaid dental benefits.
What milestones have DentaQuest and Virginia achieved together?
They have expanded coverage for pregnant members and introduced comprehensive adult dental benefits over their partnership.
How does DentaQuest aim to improve dental care?
DentaQuest is working to reduce missed appointments and establish a dental home for Medicaid members, ensuring individualized case management.
What is the mission of Sun Life U.S. Dental?
The mission is to improve oral health outcomes through innovative care solutions and strengthen relationships across the healthcare ecosystem.
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