Group Dental Schemes
Due to changes in the way that the NHS is funding dentistry it is becoming increasingly difficult to find a dentist in the that will accept new NHS patients. Only one third of dental practices are taking on new NHS patients (Which? Dental survey 2007). Increasing privatisation of dentistry has led to a demand for dental plans to fund more expensive treatment.
Some employee benefits may be claimed infrequently and as such may not be valued. Dental plans, however, are highly valued and visible because they can be used regularly by everyone. Group dental insurance allows employees to choose treatment at a convenient time and location.
Group dental plans allow members to receive benefit up to a pre-defined limit for check ups, routine treatment, emergencies and serious dental problems. It is easy for members to make a claim and there are no dental assessments or waiting periods. Reimbursement is made to the member and treatment can be either on the NHS or private.
Benefit for the Employer
- Strengthening the benefit package with such a visible benefit will improve recruitment and retention.
- The product provides preventative cover and so will prevent employee absence due to major dental problems.
- A product that employees will use regularly.
- As plans are low cost it can be a cost effective way of building staff loyalty.