For Immediate Release
Media Contact:
Melissa Richey, Chief of Communications
405-982-8707 | melissa.richey@okhca.org
Katelynn Burns, Senior Media Relations Professional
405-522-7266 | katelynn.burns@okhca.org
OHCA Selects Three Dental Managed Care Organizations to Serve Oklahoma Medicaid
OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma City, OK – The Oklahoma Health Care Authority has selected three qualified dental managed care organizations (MCOs), also known as Dental Benefit Plans (DBP), to execute the dental component of OHCA’s comprehensive managed care delivery system for certain SoonerCare members.
The selected dental MCOs are DentaQuest, LIBERTY Dental Plan of Oklahoma, Inc., and MCNA Dental.
“The selected dental managed care organizations have proven records of increasing oral health outcomes,” said OHCA CEO, Kevin Corbett. “We are optimistic that providing high quality services specifically to meet the dental needs of SoonerCare members will ultimately improve overall oral health outcomes in Oklahoma.”
The DBPs will assign dental homes to members, which will redirect members from using emergency department services, increase preventive care and reduce need for high-cost restorative procedures, and have the ability to improve providers and specialist networks.
“Through the DBPs, we will be able to concentrate more on preventive care for the younger SoonerCare population,” OHCA Dental Director, Dr. Karen Luce said. “Currently, the SoonerCare population under age 21 are not utilizing the preventive care benefit. They tend to not be treated until there’s pain and need severe work. DBPs will incentivize members to have consistent appointments and have their teeth cleaned every six months. This change will prevent a good deal of restorative care and improve overall oral health.”
Oklahoma joins 40 other states in engaging in managed care organizations to assist them in administering certain Medicaid benefits.
The contracts were competitively bid and were selected after a technical evaluation and oral presentations. The contracts are for an initial one-year term through June 2021 and five optional one-year extensions at the discretion of OHCA.
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About DentaQuest
DentaQuest is a purpose-driven oral health care company dedicated to improving the oral health of all. DentaQuest manages dental and vision benefits for 30+ million Americans and direct patient care through a network of more than 80 oral health centers in 6 states. Through partnership and collaboration with dental providers, states, and health plans, DentaQuest provides outcomes-based, cost-effective dental solutions for Medicaid and CHIP, Medicare Advantage, small and large businesses, and individuals nationwide. And, the company has invested more than $230 million in grants, programs and other corporate citizenship efforts to achieve measurably healthier communities across the country. By advancing prevention-focused oral health, DentaQuest will help achieve better overall health for everyone. Learn more at www.DentaQuest.com.
About LIBERTY Dental Plan
LIBERTY Dental Plan is a privately held dental benefit organization currently serving over 5.5 million members through its locally operated Medicare and Medicaid programs. LIBERTY is founded and operated by dentists and is the next-generation dental wellness organization, powered by its best-in-class technology, partnership with the dental community, human capital, and personalized dental care. LIBERTY has administered dental benefits to Oklahomans since 2013 and looks forward to making SoonerSelect a success. For more information, please visit LIBERTY at www.libertydentalplan.com.
About MCNA Dental
MCNA Dental is a leading dental benefits management company committed to providing high quality oral health services. We improve the oral health of the members we serve through sustainable relationships with dental care providers that establish good dental habits for life. Our innovative coordinated care solutions increase collaboration between dentists and pediatricians, encouraging comprehensive preventive care from an early age. MCNA was the first dental plan in the nation to receive full URAC Dental Plan Accreditation. We currently serve over 5 million Medicaid and CHIP members in Texas, Florida, Iowa, Idaho, Louisiana, Nebraska, Arkansas, and Utah, and are looking forward to serving members in Oklahoma. For nearly 30 years, we have been committed to improving the overall health of our members by making sure they have access to great dental care and by providing dedicated customer service that helps them meet their unique oral health goals. At MCNA, we care about your smile. More information can be found at our corporate website, https://www.mcna.net.