Important Update For Individuals With Molina Healthcare Dental Coverage

Ensuring uninterrupted access to dental care is crucial for maintaining oral health. At Bluestem Health, we understand the importance of clarity and choice when it comes to your Medicaid coverage. Recent updates to our agreement with Molina Healthcare may impact your dental coverage, and we are committed to guiding you through these changes.

Effective September 30, 2024, Bluestem Health will terminate its Dental Services Agreement with Molina Healthcare. This means that starting October 1, 2024, dental services will be out-of-network, and Molina-enrolled patients will no longer be covered for dental services. This upcoming change does not affect your medical or behavioral health coverage.

We’re here to help you complete your treatments before October. For more information or to discuss your specific situation, please don’t hesitate to contact our Outreach Department at 402-470-5452.

Transition to Other Medicaid Coverage

If you wish to continue receiving in-network Medicaid coverage services and are considering switching to another Medicaid coverage option, here’s what you need to know:

• Timing Matters: Open enrollment for new Medicaid coverage begins on November 1st. During this period, you can schedule an appointment with our Outreach Department by calling 402-470-5452.
• Effective Date: Any new Medicaid coverage obtained during this open enrollment period will not take effect until January 1, 2025. It’s important to plan ahead to avoid gaps in coverage.

Why You Should Make a Plan

Molina enrollees will continue receiving coverage for dental services at Bluestem Health until September 30th. We want to clarify the process for those who might receive dental services from October 2024 through December 2024.

• Out-of-Network Billing: Bluestem Health will submit a claim to Molina Healthcare as an out-of-network provider for services performed after September 30th. You will be responsible for charges that are not accepted by Molina Healthcare.
• Understanding Costs: Out-of-network providers typically result in higher patient costs, as they may not be fully covered by insurance. It’s essential to be aware of potential billing at the full charge.

Considerations for Patients on the Sliding Fee Discount Program

If you are currently enrolled in our Sliding Fee Discount Program, here’s how it affects your options:

• Cost Savings: The Sliding Fee Discount Program offers significant savings on healthcare services, including dental care. This program adjusts charges based on your income and household size, making it a valuable option for many patients.
• Reviewing Benefits: If you are on the Sliding Fee Discount Program, we will work with you to determine the new charge after reviewing your benefits. This ensures transparency and helps you plan for any out-of-pocket expenses.
• Not Enrolled Yet?: If you are not currently part of our Sliding Fee Discount Program and are concerned about potential out-of-network charges, we encourage you to contact us at 402-470-5452.Our team can provide information on how this program could benefit you moving forward.

Additional Considerations

At Bluestem Health, we prioritize clarity and affordability for our patients. Here are a few additional points to keep in mind:

• Billing: We reserve the right to refrain from billing procedures that we anticipate will be denied by your insurance provider. In such cases, we may request payment in full prior to completing the procedure.
• Proactive Communication: We are here to assist you throughout this transition. Please reach out to our Outreach Department or speak with a member of our administrative team if you have any questions or concerns about your coverage or billing.

Navigating changes in Medicaid coverage can be complex, but at Bluestem Health, we are committed to providing you with clear options and compassionate care. Whether you choose to explore new Medicaid coverage options or continue with our services after September 30th, our goal is to ensure that you receive the dental care you need – when you need it.