Teledentistry Tools Give Delta Dental Members Another Way to Connect with Dentists to Ensure Greater Access to Oral Health Care
SAN FRANCISCO – Delta Dental of California and its affiliates today announced two new teledentistry offerings that enable plan members the option to receive preventive oral health care consultation remotely. These virtual dentistry tools, encompassing live and photo-based assessment options, allow for remote (or virtual) access to care for Delta Dental of California PPO™ and Delta Dental Premier® plan members to network dentists. This virtual expert advice is delivered through video conferencing platforms and smartphone applications. Available as a covered benefit on an ongoing basis, Delta Dental of California’s virtual dentistry tools offer its members access to the broadest network of high-quality virtual dentists.
The first offering is an innovative photo-based app that offers virtual dental screenings from a Delta Dental of California dentist for non-urgent issues. After members download the app and complete a short form, they are guided through taking six photos of different areas of their teeth, gums and areas of concern. The photos are then automatically routed through a HIPAA-compliant channel to a dentist who will provide a personalized report within 24 hours.
For more urgent needs or when members would like to speak with a Delta Dental of California dentist, the Virtual Consult option is a secure video-based tool that connects members and providers directly. After an initial discussion to learn more about the dental issue, a dentist will guide the member through a virtual oral exam and provide treatment options and prescriptions, if necessary.
In addition to providing added flexibility for many patients, teledentistry offers an important assessment option for those with a disability, elderly members who struggle with mobility, those who live in rural areas with limited dental clinics in their region, and members seeking a second opinion.
“Oral health is critical to overall health and so the benefits of convenient access to care are significant,” said Kevin Jackson, executive vice president and chief growth officer of Delta Dental of California. “As we continually look for ways to serve our customers, members and providers, virtual tools hold great potential to deliver care safely and easily, whenever and wherever it is needed.”
Delta Dental of California members are encouraged to learn more by visiting https://www1.deltadentalins.com/members/virtual-dentistry.html. Additionally, Delta Dental of California group customers may contact their account representative for more information about virtual dentistry.
Availability of virtual consult providers may vary based by state. Appointments are subject to schedule availability.
