Q.How long has BeneCare been in business? A. BeneCare was started in 1979 by a group of private-practice dentists who wanted to reduce costs, but preserve the high standards of dental benefits. It is now one of the largest dentist organized, professionally managed dental Independent Practice Associations in the United States.

Q.How much lower is BeneCare than traditional plans? A. Approximately 20-25% lower. In converting a company plan to BeneCare, a purchaser can either preserve current coverage at a lower cost, or upgrade with additional coverage at the present cost. BeneCare offers guaranteed 2 and 3 year rates. BeneCare also offers administration for self insured plans.

Q.How many dentists belong to the BeneCare network? A. Over 3500 private-practice dentists are participating in the various BeneCare Dental Plans.

Q.What type of dental plan is BeneCare? A. BeneCare's dental prepayment plans are unique programs. They are combinations of a PPO, HMO and traditional indemnity plans. BeneCare plans are custom designed for each sponsor. BeneCare plans offer the benefit of choosing the dentist you want, the financial incentive to use in network doctors where a greater portion of services are covered or choosing an out of network dentist and still receiving some coverage (Note that each BeneCare Dental Plan is different and coverage may vary).

Q.What is the meaning of "in-network" and "out-of-network"? A. When you use a dentist that participates in the BeneCare Dental Plans networks, they are considered "in-network". When you use a dentist that does not participate, they are considered "out-of-network" and your benefits may be reduced.

Q.Is my dentist participating with your network? A. To find a participating dentist use the BeneCare.com "Dentist Locator" tool. Participation in the various BeneCare Dental Plans is open to all licensed dentists. Have your dentist contact us if he/she does not yet participate.

Q.Do I need a referral for a specialist? A. No, you may choose to see a specialist at any time. You DO NOT need a referral.

Q.Do I need to contact my plan when I change dentists? A. No. You may change dentists at anytime.

Q.Can my family members go to different dentists? A. Yes.

Q.Can I go to an out-of-network dentist? A. Some of our plans offer out-of-network benefits. Please check your plan documents for details.

Q.Is preauthorization (predetermination) necessary? A. Whenever services are expected to exceed $250.00, or whenever services such as dentures, crowns, periodontics, or bridgework are to be done, please ask your dentist to submit a request for predetermination of covered benefits. This step protects you and the dentist since it advises you both, in advance, of what portion of your dental treatment costs will be paid for by the plan, as long as you are still eligible for benefits. This is a very common procedure and your participating BeneCare dentist will be pleased to complete the reporting form. You need not do anything more at that time.