A NOTE FOR OUR PATIENTS
We're Out-of-Network.
Here's what actually changes.
The short version: you can still see us and, as always, we'll be upfront and take care of you through this transition. Out-of-network sounds bigger than it is. Most carriers and plans have out-of-network benefits and we'll work with you to figure out what they are.
Nothing about your care changes. We're still here, exactly as you know us.
Why move out-of-network?
We made the decision to move out-of-network with all dental plans so that we can keep practicing dentistry the way Dr. Lake believes in, without an insurance company dictating treatment options, our materials, or how long we can spend with you. It lets us keep our quality high and our care and time focused on you. And it's the same reason that you'll see a lot of private practice dentists having to make this decision.
Your insurance company can change their rules and reimbursement at any time, with zero notice. That's not a relationship we're interested in being involved in any longer. We'd rather work on the relationship that matters — the one with you.
We believe that you should choose your dentist the same way you'd choose anything else that matters: because you trust us, because we're honest with you, and because you actually want to walk through our door. Your insurance benefits are a tool to help pay for your services. They were never supposed to be making the decisions.
Can I still come to your office?
Yes, absolutely! We would love to see you and hope you continue your care with us. Nothing about your care, your appointments, or your relationship with our team changes. The only thing that has the potential to change is the reimbursement from your insurance, and we'll work together to figure that out.
Will my insurance still work?
Yes. Most dental plans include out-of-network benefits, and for most patients, we'll continue to file your claims for you, just like always.
The main difference is that your plan reimburses based on its out-of-network coverage, and depending on your specific plan, the reimbursement check may come to you rather than to our office.
Every carrier and every plan works a little differently, so we can't give you one answer that covers everyone. For some patients, there's barely a noticeable difference between what they were paying before and what they pay out-of-network. We won't know how the change affects your plan until we hear from your insurance carrier once we are out-of-network.
How much will I have to pay?
We'll always tell you our fee up front. What your plan reimburses depends on your specific plan's out-of-network benefits. That part is between you and your insurance company, and it varies quite a bit from plan to plan.
We never want you surprised by a bill. Once our network status changes with your insurance, we can send a pre-determination to get an estimate of what your plan will reimburse.
Is there a way to make costs more predictable?
Yes. We offer an in-house wellness plan. For a flat yearly fee, it covers your cleanings, exams, and X-rays, and gives you a discount on other treatment. No insurance, no waiting periods, no annual maximums.
What if I have a big treatment plan?
We offer financing through Cherry and CareCredit, including interest-free options, so you can spread your payments out over time.
Between your out-of-network benefits, our wellness plan, and financing, we have a way to make care work for almost everyone.
What do I need to do right now?
Nothing, unless you're actively shopping for a different insurance plan. Keep your appointments as scheduled. When the change takes place, we will look into your plan and let you know of any changes to your out-of-pocket portion before your appointment.
If you'd like to talk before your next visit, just reply to our text or give us a call. We're happy to walk you through it.
I'm choosing my benefits for next year. What should I know?
As you select a dental plan during open enrollment, keep in mind that we'll be out-of-network with all dental plans. You don't need an in-network plan to keep seeing us.
What we'd tell a good friend: look for a plan with good benefits both in-network and out-of-network, not one that only pays well when you see a dentist it has contracted with directly. A plan that takes care of you no matter who you choose to see is a much better plan.
We think choosing your dentist is a decision worth making for yourself. Then find the plan that fits around it.
If you'd rather skip the insurance guesswork entirely, our in-house wellness plan is there as a soft landing. No networks, no waiting periods, no deductibles or maxes, no surprises.
One more thing
We're here for you.
Not your insurance company.
That's the whole reason behind this change. Your insurance benefits are a tool. They were never supposed to be calling the shots.
Questions? We're here.
Call us at (573) 756-4344 or send us a text at (855) 591-1241. We'd rather answer your questions than have you wonder. We're committed to keeping you as a patient and helping you navigate this change with ease.