Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota (Blue Cross) today announced plans to offer dental products in 2016, the result of a new agreement with Pennsylvania-based United Concordia Dental.
The new dental portfolio, to be called Blue Cross Dental, will consist of a variety of comprehensive and low-cost preferred provider organization (PPO) products for purchase by individuals and businesses. It will offer a range of prices, cost-sharing and benefits, and provide access to United Concordia's Advantage Plus 2.0 network. As one of the nation's largest dental provider networks, Advantage Plus 2.0 offers deep discounts on services throughout the country. United Concordia will also administer and provide claims administration for the product portfolio in Minnesota.
"We believe that people want an option for more coordinated dental and medical coverage," said David Corkum, senior vice president of commercial markets, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota. "Aligning the expertise of Blue Cross and United Concordia makes a lot of sense. Not only will these new products provide an enhanced patient experience, but I believe they can help increase awareness of the important link between oral health and total health."
"United Concordia is excited to bring our more than 40 years of experience in dental benefits to Minnesotans," said F.G. "Chip" Merkel, president and chief executive officer, United Concordia Dental. "Our relationship with Blue Cross allows us to expand into the Midwest, offering us new opportunities for growth and demonstrating our commitment to wellness. We are well-positioned to help Blue Cross make a healthy difference in people's lives – a mission that aligns with our own."