ADA raises concerns over dental insurer’s acquisition of dental practices

The ADA is raising concerns over a Wisconsin dental insurer’s acquisition of a chain of dental practices. 

Delta Dental of Wisconsin, a member of the national Delta Dental Plans Association, recently acquired a group of practices known as Cherry Tree Dental. The ADA and the Wisconsin Dental Association said in a July 2 statement that the move raises “deep concerns and important questions” about potential impacts to dental professionals and patients. 

The ADA said it is actively seeking clarity from Delta Dental of Wisconsin about the nature and scope of the transaction and reviewing potential legal and regulatory implications. The core concern centers on the potential conflict of interest when an insurance company becomes both the payer and the provider of dental care, according to the statement. 

“From a business standpoint, dental insurance companies seek to minimize cost and maximize profit. As a result, patients may find their treatment options limited to what is most cost-effective for the insurer, not necessarily what is most effective for their oral health,” the statement said. 

The ADA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting a fair environment, where all dentists can practice with integrity and in the best interest of their patients. Current ADA policy supports dentist-owned practices and urges regulation of entities providing dental services that are controlled by nondentists to ensure consistent ethical and legal standards.

Mark Moats, D.M.D., chair of the ADA's Council on Dental Benefit Programs, said it is "critical" to preserve the autonomy of the clinical care dentists provide to patients. 

"The integrity of the skill, care and judgment that we provide is the cornerstone of each relationship that we share with our patients. ADA leadership and membership stand firm on protecting and preserving the integrity of that relationship," Dr. Moats said. 

ADA News will provide more information as it becomes available.