The WVDA and the ADA oppose Delta Dental of California’s policy to begin charging dentists for paper checks and Aetna’s move away from paper checks for noncontracted providers.
Delta Dental is now requiring providers to pay a separate administrative fee of $15 per week if they wish to continue receiving reimbursement by paper check.
The ADA previously sent a letter July 8 to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners asking the organization to take a stand against this payment policy shift and urging insurance commissioners around the country to support regulatory oversight.
What can you do to fight this action?
First, educate yourself on your options: Delta responds to ADA inquiries about charging dentists to receive reimbursement | American Dental Association
Second, contact Delta Dental and let them know this egregious action against small business owners is unwarranted and unacceptable.
Third, file a claim with the WV Office of the Insurance Commissioner: Consumer Complaint Form – WV
This is not a federal issue, as each state has different laws about payment. Your West Virginia Dental Association is joining with the other 10 state dental associations affected by this action to send a letter to Delta Dental, which will also be sent to the WV Office of the Insurance Commissioner.
Your WVDA will have additional information in an Enews next week.
