DENTAL BLUE FOR INDIVIDUALS · Dental Blue for Individuals gives you the freedom to choose any...

24164224581 DTL1 SDTL 01012013 IDTLSR GERALDINEMARSHALLJ 02192013 20130219109760393

TABLE OF CONTENTS

WELCOME TO DENTAL BLUE FOR INDIVIDUALS 3

WHO TO CONTACT 4

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS 5

HOW DENTAL BLUE FOR INDIVIDUALS WORKS 6

CARRY YOUR IDENTIFICATION CARD 6 MAKING AN APPOINTMENT 6 HOW TO FILE A CLAIM 6 PREMIUM PAYMENTS 6

UNDERSTANDING YOUR SHARE OF THE COST 8

DEDUCTIBLES 8 COINSURANCE 8 COPAYMENT8

COVERED SERVICES 9

DIAGNOSTIC AND PREVENTIVE SERVICES9 BASIC SERVICES 9 MAJOR SERVICES 9 ALTERNATE COURSE OF TREATMENT 11 PRE-TREATMENT ESTIMATE OF BENEFITS 11

WHAT IS NOT COVERED 12

WHEN COVERAGE BEGINS AND ENDS16

COVERAGE FOR YOUR DEPENDENTS16 WAITING PERIODS 16 TYPES OF COVERAGE 16 ADDING OR REMOVING A DEPENDENT16 REPORTING CHANGES 16 RENEWING YOUR COVERAGE 16 TERMINATION OF MEMBER COVERAGE17

UTILIZATION MANAGEMENT 18

RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES UNDER THE UM PROGRAM 18 RETROSPECTIVE REVIEWS (POST-SERVICE)18 EVALUATING NEW TECHNOLOGY 18

WHAT IF YOU DISAGREE WITH OUR DECISION 19

THE APPEALS PROCESS 19 DELEGATED APPEALS 19 THE APPEALS PROCESS 19

ADDITIONAL TERMS OF YOUR COVERAGE 20

BENEFITS TO WHICH MEMBERS ARE ENTITLED 20 BCBSNCS DISCLOSURE OF PROTECTED HEALTH INFORMATION (PHI) 20 PROVIDER REIMBURSEMENT20 BCBSNC MODIFICATIONS 20 BCBSNC NOTIFICATIONS 20 BCBSNC CONTRACT 20 NOTICE OF CLAIM 21

M60Seniors 812

TABLE OF CONTENTS (cont)

LIMITATION OF ACTIONS 21

GLOSSARY22

WELCOME TO DENTAL BLUE FOR INDIVIDUALS


Welcome to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolinas Dental Blue for Individuals plan As a MEMBER of the Dental Blue for Individuals plan you will enjoy quality dental care

How to Use Your Dental Blue for Individuals Benefit Booklet This benefit booklet provides important information about your benefits and can help you understand how to maximize them

If you are trying to determine whether coverage will be provided for a specific service you may want to review all of the following Summary of Benefits to get an overview of your specific benefits such as deductible coinsurance and

maximum amounts COVERED SERVICES to get more detailed information about what is covered What Is Not Covered to see exclusions from coverage

If you still have questions visit our website at mybcbsnccom or call BCBSNC Dental Blue for Individuals Customer Service at the number listed on your ID CARD or in ldquoWho to Contactrdquo

As you read this benefit booklet keep in mind that any word you see in small capital letters (SMALL CAPITAL LETTERS) is a defined term and appears in Glossary at the end of this benefit booklet The terms we us and BCBSNC refer to Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Common insurance terms involving your financial responsibility such as coinsurance and deductible are defined in Understanding Your Share of the Cost

You will also want to review the following sections of this benefit booklet

How Dental Blue for Individuals Works explains how to access your dental benefits When Coverage Begins and Ends tells you among other things how and when to enroll in this dental

benefit plan What If You Disagree with our Decision explains the rights available to you when we make a decision

regarding your coverage and you do not agree

3

WHO TO CONTACT

WHO TO CONTACT

BCBSNC Website To view your claims get premium payment information change your address find a PROVIDER request new ID CARDS get benefit information or claim forms we invite you to visit us here

Website mybcbsnccom

BCBSNC Customer Service For questions about your benefits or claims claim form requests to find a PROVIDER or to request pre-treatment estimates for services 1-800-305-6638 (toll free) For questions about membership or to request a new ID CARD claim forms or a benefit booklet 1-888-206-4697 (toll free)

4

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS

This section provides a summary of your Dental Blue for Individuals benefits A more complete description of your benefits is found in COVERED SERVICES Exclusions may also apply - please see What Is Not Covered As you review the chart keep in mind

Deductibles and coinsurance amounts are based on the ALLOWED AMOUNT Coinsurance percentages shown in this section are the portion of the ALLOWED AMOUNT that BCBSNC

pays

Please note If you receive DENTAL SERVICES from contracting PROVIDERS in or outside the state of North Carolina you only pay the coinsurance and deductible listed below If you receive DENTAL SERVICES from non-contracting PROVIDERS in addition to the coinsurance and deductible listed below you may be responsible for the difference between the PROVIDERS billed charge and the ALLOWED AMOUNT For a list of contracting PROVIDERS see our website at mybcbsnccom

BENEFIT PERIOD - 01012013 through 12312013

Benefits

DENTAL SERVICES

First year Of Coverage

Second Year Of Coverage

Third Year Of Coverage And

After

Diagnostic and Preventive Services

Basic Services (after 6-month WAITING PERIOD)

Major Services (after 12-month WAITING PERIOD)

Individual Dental Deductible per BENEFIT PERIOD includes basic and major services

Dental BENEFIT PERIOD MAXIMUM per individual includes diagnostic and preventive basic and major services

A member must be enrolled on this dental benefit plan for at least 6 months of continuous coverage prior to the beginning of the second BENEFIT PERIOD

$25 copayment then 100

60 after deductible

50 after deductible

$75

$1000


60 after deductible

50 after deductible

$75

$1100


60 after deductible

50 after deductible

$75

$1200

See When Coverage Begins and Ends for more information on WAITING PERIODS

M60Senior-s 812 5

HOW DENTAL BLUE FOR INDIVIDUALS WORKS

CARRY YOUR IDENTIFICATION CARD

MAKING AN APPOINTMENT

HOW TO FILE A CLAIM

PREMIUM PAYMENTS


Dental Blue for Individuals gives you the freedom to choose any PROVIDER As a MEMBER of Dental Blue for Individuals you have access to PROVIDERS including contracting PROVIDERS in and outside the state of North Carolina If you receive covered DENTAL SERVICES from a contracting PROVIDER you will only pay the coinsurance amount and any applicable deductible However if you receive DENTAL SERVICES from PROVIDERS who do not contract with BCBSNC you may be responsible for the difference between the billed amount and the ALLOWED AMOUNT in addition to the coinsurance and any applicable deductible We encourage you to discuss the cost of services with your PROVIDER before receiving services so you will be aware of your total financial responsibility Please refer to Summary of Benefits to see what deductibles or coinsurance apply to your benefits Also see Understanding Your Share of the Cost for an explanation of deductibles and coinsurance

Prior to receiving services you or your PROVIDER are encouraged to call BCBSNC Customer Service at the number given in Who to Contact to obtain the criteria that BCBSNC uses to determine whether the recommended services are CLINICALLY NECESSARY and eligible for coverage

Carry Your IDENTIFICATION CARD Your ID CARD identifies you as a Dental Blue for Individuals MEMBER Be sure to carry your ID CARD with you at all times and present it each time you seek dental care

For ID CARD requests please visit our website at mybcbsnccom or call the number listed in Who to Contact

Making an Appointment Call the PROVIDERS office and identify yourself as a Dental Blue for Individuals MEMBER If you cannot keep an appointment call the PROVIDERS office as soon as possible Charges for missed appointments which PROVIDERS may require as part of their routine practice are not covered

How to File a Claim If you choose contracting PROVIDERS they will file claims for you Otherwise you may be responsible for paying for care at the time of service and filing claims to BCBSNC for reimbursement When you file a claim mail the completed claim form to BCBSNC Claims Unit PO Box 2100 Winston Salem NC 27102-2100

Mail claims in time to be received within 18 months of the date the service was provided Claims not received within 18 months from the service date will not be covered except in the absence of legal capacity of the MEMBER

For claim forms or help filing a claim visit our website at mybcbsnccom or call BCBSNC at the number listed in Who to Contact

In order to process your claim BCBSNC may need information and require proof of the condition and treatment of your teeth or mouth For example BCBSNC may request your complete dental chart including Previous dental work Itemized bills Description of materials and treatment X-rays Lab reports Casts molds photographs or study models

Premium Payments You may view payment information payment history and current amount due by visiting our website at mybcbsnccom Your premiums are due on or before your premium due date If you pay your premiums through automatic bank draft please be aware that if there are insufficient funds BCBSNC may attempt to debit your bank account until sufficient funds are received We will not make more than three attempts to debit your bank account

6

HOW DENTAL BLUE FOR INDIVIDUALS WORKS (cont)

BCBSNC does not charge a fee for this service however your bank may charge a fee if there are insufficient funds to cover the payment

Your dental benefit plan allows for a 31-day grace period for payment of premiums before automatic termination However if BCBSNC receives your premiums past the premium due date BCBSNC may charge a fee for any late payment of premiums You will be notified if you incur any fees charged by BCBSNC Failure to pay the fee either by separate payment or by including the payment with your next premium payment will result in your next payment being applied first to any outstanding fees incurred and then to your premium payment This may result in a shortage of monies owed on your premium payment and termination of coverage See Termination of MEMBER Coverage

If premium payments are not made within the time allowed your dental benefit plan will be terminated If you wish to be reinstated within 30 days from the date of termination notice you must either submit a written request for reinstatement to BCBSNC Financial Processing Services or call BCBSNC Customer Service To be considered for reinstatement you must also include any overdue premiums owed plus current amount due and any administrative fees in order to bring your account to a current status Please submit your request along with a personal check or money order payable to BCBSNC to BCBSNC Financial Processing Services PO Box 30080 Durham NC 27702-3080 or call BCBSNC Customer Service at the number listed in ldquoWho to Contactrdquo to have your checking account drafted for the overdue amount

In the event that reinstatement is not approved you will have to wait 12 months from the termination date to apply for another dental policy

Please note that premium payments are automatically drafted BCBSNCs draft of premiums does not mean an acceptance of coverage Also if you have been notified that your coverage is terminated or is scheduled to be terminated any draft of premiums by BCBSNC in excess of premiums that are due and owing for the coverage period will not constitute an extension of coverage BCBSNC will return any excess premium payments When BCBSNC decides at its sole discretion to accept a late premium payment BCBSNC will reinstate your coverage back to the date of termination rather than return such premium payment provided that all outstanding fees have been paid Any waiting periods would still apply

7

UNDERSTANDING YOUR SHARE OF THE COST

DEDUCTIBLES

COINSURANCE

COPAYMENT


This section explains how you and BCBSNC share the cost of your dental care

Deductibles A deductible is the dollar amount you must incur for COVERED SERVICES in a BENEFIT PERIOD before benefits are payable by BCBSNC The deductible does not include coinsurance charges in excess of the ALLOWED AMOUNT amounts exceeding any maximum or charges for noncovered services Each MEMBER covered by this dental benefit plan has an individual deductible See Summary of Benefits for your specific deductible amounts

Coinsurance Coinsurance is the sharing of charges by BCBSNC and the MEMBER for COVERED SERVICES after you have satisfied your deductible You are responsible for any portion of the charge over the ALLOWED AMOUNT which does not apply to your deductible or coinsurance

Copayment A copayment is a fixed dollar amount that you must pay for some COVERED SERVICES at the time your services are rendered

As part of your dental benefit plan the BENEFIT PERIOD MAXIMUM amount may increase over time Once you have been a MEMBER for three full and continuous BENEFIT PERIODS then you will reach the highest BENEFIT PERIOD MAXIMUM available Please note In order for a MEMBER to qualify for the second years coverage level the MEMBER must be enrolled on this dental benefit plan for at least 6 months of continuous coverage prior to the beginning of the second BENEFIT PERIOD

Here is an example of what your costs could be for COVERED SERVICES from a PROVIDER who has a contract with BCBSNC over a three year period based on the following values Dental BENEFIT PERIOD MAXIMUM (first year of coverage) $1000 Dental BENEFIT PERIOD MAXIMUM (second year of coverage) $1100 Dental BENEFIT PERIOD MAXIMUM (third year of coverage) $1200

First Year of Coverage

Second Year of Coverage

Third Year of Coverage

A Total Bill $500 $500 $500

B ALLOWED AMOUNT $450 $450 $450

C Deductible Amount $75 $75 $75

D ALLOWED AMOUNT Minus Deductible (B-C) $375 $375 $375

E BCBSNC Pays (Coinsurance times D) (60) $225 (60) $225 (60) $225

F Your Coinsurance Amount (D-E) (40) $150 (40) $150 (40) $150

G Amount You Owe Over ALLOWED AMOUNT (A-B)

$0 $0 $0

H Total Amount You Owe (C+F+G) $225 $225 $225

BENEFIT PERIOD MAXIMUM Remaining $775 $875 $975

Deductible and coinsurance amounts are for example only Please refer to Summary of Benefits for your specific benefit amounts

8

COVERED SERVICES

DIAGNOSTIC AND PREVENTIVE SERVICES

BASIC SERVICES

MAJOR SERVICES

COVERED SERVICES

Dental Blue for Seniors covers only those services that are CLINICALLY NECESSARY

Exclusions and limitations apply to your coverage See What Is Not Covered

Your dental benefit plan provides coverage for the services listed below which may be obtained from any PROVIDER of DENTAL SERVICES

Diagnostic and Preventive Services Many dental expenses result from problems that could have been prevented by regular checkups Your dental plan helps you avoid such expenses by providing benefits for preventive services

The following are COVERED SERVICES Oral evaluations

- periodic (twice per BENEFIT PERIOD) - comprehensive oral or periodontal (limit one per PROVIDER and one per BENEFIT PERIOD counts toward

periodic frequency limit above) Cleaning - prophylaxis including scaling and polishing above the gum line (twice each BENEFIT PERIOD) X-rays

- full-mouth or panoramic for MEMBERS age six and older (limited to once every three years unless taken for diagnosis of third molars cysts or neoplasms)

- supplemental bitewings - x-rays showing the back teeth (maximum of four films per BENEFIT PERIOD) Diagnostic casts - only if not related to prosthetic services Palliative EMERGENCY treatment for relief of pain only (limit of two per BENEFIT PERIOD)

Basic Services The following basic services are covered only after six months of continuous enrollment unless this WAITING PERIOD is waived or reduced See WAITING PERIODS for more information Limited detailed problem-focused (twice per BENEFIT PERIOD) Consultations one per PROVIDER only covered if no other services except x-rays performed X-rays

- vertical bitewings (limit of one set per BENEFIT PERIOD associated with periodontics) - periapical and occlusal x-ray of a tooth (limited to four films per BENEFIT PERIOD) - extraoral (two films per BENEFIT PERIOD)

Pulp-testing - evaluation of tooth nerve (limited to one charge per visit egardless of the number of teeth tested)

Routine fillings to restore diseased teeth (limit of one restoration per tooth every two years unless new decay appears) - amalgam - a soft silver which hardens after it is packed into the cavity - composite resin or other tooth-colored filling materials

Stainless steel crowns (one per tooth every eight years) Simple extractions Pin retention (limit of once per restoration) Recementing of inlays onlays crowns andor fixed partial dentures

Major Services A DENTIST may use an artificial device to restore your natural teeth or treat diseases of the gum and tissues around the teeth Please note treatment of crowns dentures or gold restorations is deemed INCURRED when the tooth is prepared for the procedure Major services are covered only after 12 months of continuous enrollment unless this WAITING PERIOD is waived or reduced See WAITING PERIODS for more information

Surgical removal of teeth Complex oral surgery

- oroantral fistula closure closure of sinus perforation (once per tooth) - surgical access of unerupted toothprocess to aid eruption (once per tooth) - transseptal fiberotomy (once per site every three years) - alveoloplasty (once per site every three years)

9

COVERED SERVICES (cont)

- vestibuloplasty (once per site every three years) - removal of exostosis (once per site every three years) - incision and drainage of intraoral abscess - frenulectomy (once per site per lifetime) - excision of hyperplastic tissue or pericornal gingival (once per site every three years)

Anesthesia limited to deep sedation and intravenous when CLINICALLY NECESSARY and related to covered complex surgery

Endodontics - treatment of diseases of the nerve chamber and canals - pulpotomy - partial removal of a tooths pulp and placement of medicament (once per tooth per lifetime) - retrograde filling (limit one per root) - root amputation (limit one per root) - endodontic therapy (once per lifetime and retreatment once per lifetime after 12 months from initial

treatment) - apexification - inducing root development - hemisection - dividing the crown and roots of a multi-rooted tooth (once per root per lifetime) - apicoectomy - removing the infected tip of the tooths root (once per root per lifetime)

Treatment of the diseases of the gums and bone surrounding the teeth is periodontics The following are covered periodontal services Crown lengthening - reshaping the bone around the teeth to allow for proper prosthetic preparation (once per

tooth every three years per site or quadrant) Root planing and periodontal scaling - scraping to remove mineralized deposits and smooth rough infected

root surfaces (once per quadrant every three years) Full mouth debridement (once every five years) Provisional splinting (once every three years) Periodontal maintenance following active periodontal therapy (twice each BENEFIT PERIOD) Complex surgical periodontal care (limited to one complex surgical periodontal service per area every three

years) - gingivectomy and gingivoplasty - cutting out diseased or overgrown gum tissues around the teeth - gingival flap procedure - soft tissue flap is reflected or resected to allow debridement of the root surface

and the removal of granulation tissue - osseous surgery - removing or reshaping the bone around the teeth through an incision of the gum - bone replacement graft - guided tissue regeneration - soft tissue graftallograftconnective tissue graft - distal or proximal wedge

The following major services are also covered Inlays onlays crowns (one restoration per tooth every eight years covered only when a filling cannot

restore the tooth) Core build-up cast post and core (one per tooth every eight years) Labial veneers anterior only (one per tooth every five years) Complete dentures (once every eight years no additional allowances for over-dentures or customized

dentures) Removable partial dentures (once every eight years no additional allowances for precision or semi-precision

attachments) Fixed partial dentures (once every eight years no additional allowances for removable partial dentures) Tissue conditioning done more than six months after initial insertion or rebasing or relining (once per 12

months per prosthesis) Denture relining done more than six months after the initial insertion (once every two years) Rebasing of complete and partial dentures done more than five years after the initial insertion (once every

five years)

10

ALTERNATE COURSE OF TREATMENT

PRE-TREATMENT ESTIMATE OF BENEFITS


Crown partial and complete denture repairs and addition of teeth to existing partial dentures (limited to repairs or adjustments done after 12 months following the initial insertion)

Replacement of broken teeth on partial or complete dentures (once per tooth every three years) Occlusal guard for treatment of bruxism only (once every five years)

Alternate Course of Treatment In all cases involving services in which either you or your PROVIDER selects a course of treatment benefits will be based on the procedures that are consistent with professional standards of dental practice for the dental condition Clinical situations that can be effectively treated by a more cost-effective clinically acceptable alternative procedure will be assigned a benefit based on the less costly procedures For example gold titanium and high-noble metal restorations and prosthodontics will be covered at the level of noble metal procedures

Pre-Treatment Estimate of Benefits When the charges from a DENTIST for a proposed course of treatment are expected to be over $250 a pre-treatment estimate of benefits is strongly recommended before any services are performed You or your DENTIST can mail information to BCBSNC for a pre-treatment estimate of benefits BCBSNC will provide information on the portion of the charges that will be allowed

This chart lists documentation required for a pre-treatment estimate of payment

Single- Periodontics Multiple- Endodontics Oral Surgery Anesthesia Unit Fixed Unit Fixed

Restorations Restorations

Description - Crowns - Build-ups

- Root planing and osseous

- Abutments - Pontics

- Conventional endodontics

- Surgical extractions

- General - IV sedation

- Post and surgery on - Impactions cores permanent

teeth and retreatments

Information - Preshy - Preshy - Preshy - Pre-operative - Preshy - Type

Required operative x- operative x- operative x-rays operative - Duration of

for Claim ray(s) ray(s) x-rays (full x-ray(s) agent

Processing - Periodontal

charting arch)

Please mail the information to BCBSNC Claims Unit PO Box 2100 Winston Salem NC 27102-2100

11

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

This section describes exclusions to your dental benefits starting with general exclusions and then the remaining exclusions listed in alphabetical order Your dental benefit plan does not cover services supplies drugs or charges for Any condition disease ailment injury or diagnostic service to the extent that benefits are provided

or persons are eligible for coverage under Title XVIII of the Social Security Act of 1965 including amendments except as otherwise provided by federal law

Conditions that federal state or local law requires to be treated in a public facility Any condition disease illness or injury that occurs in the course of employment if the employee employer

or carrier is liable or responsible for the specific dental charge (1) according to a final adjudication of the claim under a states workers compensation laws or (2) by an order of a state industrial commission or other applicable regulatory agency approving a settlement agreement

Benefits that are provided by any governmental unit except as required by law Services that are ordered by a court that are otherwise excluded from benefits under this dental benefit plan Any condition suffered as a result of any act of war or while on active or reserve military duty A dental or medical department maintained by or on behalf of an employer a mutual benefit association

labor union trust or similar person or group Services in excess of any BENEFIT PERIOD MAXIMUM Services received or begun prior to the MEMBERS EFFECTIVE DATE of coverage except as specifically covered

by your dental benefit plan A benefit drug service or supply not specifically listed as covered in this benefit booklet

In addition your dental benefit plan does not cover the following services supplies drugs or charges

A DENTAL SERVICES related to an accidental injury

Acupuncture and acupressure

Administrative charges billed by a PROVIDER including charges for failure to keep a scheduled visit completion of a claim form obtaining dental records late payments and telephone charges

Costs in excess of the ALLOWED AMOUNT

Anesthesia including local regional block trigeminal division block nitrous oxide analgesia anxiolysis non-intravenous conscious sedation except as otherwise covered by your dental benefit plan

Attachments to conventional removable prostheses or fixed bridgework including semi-precision or precision attachments associated with partial dentures crown or bridge abutments full or partial overdentures any internal attachment associated with an implant prosthesis and any elective endodontic procedure related to a tooth or root involved in the construction of a prosthesis of this nature

B Placement of fixed bridgework solely for the purpose of achieving periodontal stability

Brush biopsy

Claims not submitted to BCBSNC within 18 months of the date the charge was INCURRED except in the absence of legal capacity of the MEMBER

Services or supplies deemed not CLINICALLY NECESSARY

Side effects and complications of noncovered services except for EMERGENCY SERVICES in the case of an EMERGENCY

12

C

WHAT IS NOT COVERED (cont)

Cone beam

Treatment of CONGENITAL malformations of hard or soft tissue including excision

Convenience items such as but not limited to devices and equipment used for environmental control heating pads hot water bottles ice packs and personal hygiene items

COSMETIC or aesthetic services

Services received before or after the coverage period of your dental benefit plan regardless of when the treated condition occurred and regardless of whether the care is a continuation of care received prior to the termination except as specifically covered by your dental benefit plan

Indirect resin-based composite crowns

Temporary or provisional crowns

Removal of odontogenic and nonodontogenic cysts

Cytology samples

D Placement of dental implants and any related services This includes pharmacological regimens

Dental procedures not directly associated with dental disease

Dental procedures not performed in a dental setting

Interim dentures

Removable unilateral partial denture (one-piece cast metal) including clasps and teeth

Application of desensitizing materials

Drugs or medications obtainable with or without a PRESCRIPTION unless they are dispensed and utilized in the dental office during the patient visit

E Services primarily for educational purposes including but not limited to books tapes pamphlets seminars classroom Web or computer programs individual or group instruction and counseling except as specifically covered by your dental benefit plan

Equipment and devices used for environmental accommodation requiring vehicle andor building modifications such as but not limited to chair lifts stair lifts home elevators standing frames and ramps

EXPERIMENTAL procedures including pharmacological regimens not accepted by the American Dental Association (ADA) Council on Dental Therapeutics

F Setting of facial bony fractures and any treatment associated with the dislocation of facial skeletal hard tissue

Topical fluoride application treatment

H DENTAL SERVICES provided in a HOSPITAL

Hypnosis except when used for control of acute or chronic pain

13


I Incision and drainage of an extraoral soft tissue

Services that are INVESTIGATIONAL in nature or obsolete including any service drugs procedure or treatment directly related to an INVESTIGATIONAL treatment

L Destruction of lesions by physical or chemical method

M Maxillofacial prosthesis

Services covered under your medical plan

N Treatment of malignant or benign neoplasms cysts or other pathology except for excisional removal (Hard or soft tissue biopsies of neoplasms cysts or hard or soft tissue growths of unknown cellular makeup are not excluded)

Services that would not be necessary if a noncovered service had not been received except for EMERGENCY

SERVICES in the case of an EMERGENCY This includes any services procedures or supplies associated with COSMETIC

services INVESTIGATIONAL services and services deemed not CLINICALLY NECESSARY

O Occlusal guards for any purpose other than control of habitual grinding

Office visits for purposes of observation or presentation of treatment plan

Orthodontic services

P Periodontal related services such as anatomical crown exposure apically positioned flap surgical revisions and unscheduled charges

Temporary or provisional pontics

Care or services from a PROVIDER who Cannot legally provide or legally charge for the service or services are outside the scope of the PROVIDERS

license or certification Provides and bills for services from a licensed dental care professional who is in training Is in a MEMBERS immediate family

Pulp cap direct or indirect

R

Radiographs not specifically stated as covered are considered noncovered such as skull and bone survey

Tooth re-implantation or transplantation from one site to another

Removal of foreign bodies or non-vital bones

S Services related to the salivary gland

Sealants

14


Services or supplies that are Not performed by or upon the direction of a DENTIST or other PROVIDER Available to a MEMBER without charge An inherent component of a covered DENTAL SERVICE

Space maintainers devices to keep space from closing after loss of primary (baby) tooth so a permanent tooth will have room to grow

Surgery for psychological or emotional reasons

Surgical procedures surgical placement of temporary anchorage device LeFort emergency tracheotomy and synthetic graft

T Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) treatment either bilateral or unilateral and any associated services

Tests exams and oral pathology laboratory not specifically listed as a COVERED SERVICE

Travel whether or not recommended or prescribed by a doctor or other licensed dental care professional

V Reconstruction of a patients correct vertical dimension of occlusion (VDO) and related procedures

Vitamins food supplements or replacements nutritional or dietary supplements formulas or special foods of any kind

15

WHEN COVERAGE BEGINS AND ENDS

COVERAGE FOR YOUR DEPENDENTS

Waiting Periods

TYPES OF COVERAGE

ADDING OR REMOVING A DEPENDENT

REPORTING CHANGES

RENEWING YOUR COVERAGE


This section describes the requirements for enrolling in this dental benefit plan and the types of coverage available to you (References to you in this section refer to the SUBSCRIBER)

You and your DEPENDENT must be age 65 or older and residents of North Carolina to be eligible to apply for coverage Following receipt and approval of your application coverage for you and your DEPENDENT begins on the EFFECTIVE DATE of this dental benefit plan If you add a DEPENDENT after a family status change and you do not select an EFFECTIVE DATE on the application coverage for the DEPENDENT will begin on the day their first premium is due following receipt and approval of the Enrollment and Change application

Coverage for Your DEPENDENTS You may apply to cover your eligible DEPENDENT under your policy at the time of initial enrollment Otherwise they cannot be added unless you encounter a family status change as described in Adding or Removing a DEPENDENT

Your eligible DEPENDENTS include Your spouse under a legally valid existing marriage between persons of the opposite sex who is aged 65 or

older

Only enrolled MEMBERS can receive the benefits described in this benefit booklet The right to receive benefits is not transferable

WAITING PERIODS There is no WAITING PERIOD for MEMBERS to receive benefits for diagnostic and preventive services However there is a six-month WAITING PERIOD for basic services and a 12-month WAITING PERIOD for major services WAITING PERIODS are waived or reduced by the number of months of prior coverage if the MEMBER can show proof of prior BCBSNC dental coverage However WAITING PERIODS will not be waived or reduced if more than 63 days have passed between the termination of the prior coverage and the signature date on the application for current coverage

Types of Coverage These are the types of coverage available SUBSCRIBER-only coverage - The dental benefit plan covers only you SUBSCRIBER-spouse coverage - The dental benefit plan covers you and your spouse

Adding or Removing a DEPENDENT Do you want to add or remove a DEPENDENT You must notify BCBSNC and fill out any required forms

You can apply for coverage of newly eligible DEPENDENTS within thirty days after the DEPENDENT becomes eligible through one of these qualifying events Marriage A DEPENDENTS loss of eligibility for other dental coverage through no fault of their own

If BCBSNC accepts your DEPENDENT the DEPENDENT will be an enrolled MEMBER on their EFFECTIVE DATE If you did not enroll DEPENDENTS when first eligible they will not be eligible for coverage later Once dental coverage has terminated regardless of the reason you may not re-enroll unless a qualifying event occurs

You may remove your spouse from your coverage by contacting BCBSNC Your spouse must be removed from coverage when they are no longer eligible for example due to divorce or death If the SUBSCRIBER dies ineligible DEPENDENTS may apply to continue coverage within 30 days of the SUBSCRIBERS death Please call Customer Service for help continuing coverage

Reporting Changes Have you moved added or changed other dental coverage changed your name or phone number If so contact BCBSNC Customer Service at the number listed in Who to Contact It will help us give you better service if BCBSNC is kept informed of these changes

Renewing Your Coverage

16

TERMINATION OF MEMBER COVERAGE

WHEN COVERAGE BEGINS AND ENDS (cont)

If you continue to pay your premiums and meet the eligibility requirements your coverage will continue except as stated in the section ldquoWhen Coverage Begins and Endsrdquo BCBSNC may modify your coverage as permitted by state or federal law

Termination of MEMBER Coverage A MEMBERS termination shall be effective at 1159 pm on the date that eligibility ends To end your coverage the SUBSCRIBER may call or write to BCBSNC Customer Service and request termination

Coverage may be modified terminated or cancelled by BCBSNC at any time for any of the following reasons Failure to pay premiums on time See Premium Payments Fraud or material misrepresentation (or intentional misrepresentation of a material fact) by a MEMBER or

their representative at any time during coverage In the first two years of coverage if there were false or incomplete statements on your application your

policy will be voided and any premiums paid will be returned however BCBSNC may deduct the amount for any claims paid

Failure to comply with rate or benefit changes A SUBSCRIBER moves out of the dental service area and refuses to transfer after 30 days written notice to a

plan serving the area A MEMBER is no longer eligible Coverage may be modified terminated or cancelled by BCBSNC for the following reasons BCBSNC stops offering coverage in the individual market provided 180 days prior written notice is given

or BCBSNC stops offering this dental coverage in the individual market provided 90 days written notice is

given prior to termination or BCBSNC stops renewing your coverage due to changes in the terms and conditions of your coverage

provided SUFFICIENT NOTICE is provided as required by applicable law

17

UTILIZATION MANAGEMENT

RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES UNDER THE UM PROGRAM

RETROSPECTIVE REVIEWS (POST-SERVICE)

EVALUATING NEW TECHNOLOGY


BCBSNC has a UTILIZATION MANAGEMENT (UM) program which looks at whether DENTAL SERVICES are CLINICALLY NECESSARY provided in the proper setting and for a reasonable length of time

Rights and Responsibilities Under the UM Program Your MEMBER Rights Under the UM program you have the right to A UM decision that is timely meeting applicable state and federal time frames The reasons for BCBSNCs ADVERSE BENEFIT DETERMINATION of a requested treatment or dental care

service including an explanation of the UM criteria and treatment protocol used to reach the decision Have a clinical director from BCBSNC make a final determination of all ADVERSE BENEFIT

DETERMINATIONS that were based upon CLINICAL NECESSITY Request a review of ADVERSE BENEFIT DETERMINATION through our appeals process See ldquoWhat If You

Disagree with our Decisionrdquo Have an authorized representative pursue payment of a claim or make an appeal on your behalf

An authorized representative may act on the MEMBERS behalf with the MEMBERS written consent In the event you appoint an authorized representative references to you under the UTILIZATION MANAGEMENT section mean you or your authorized representative (ie the authorized representative may pursue your rights and shall receive all notices and benefit determinations)

BCBSNCs Responsibilities As part of all UM decisions BCBSNC will Provide you and your PROVIDER with a toll-free telephone number to call UM review staff when

CERTIFICATION of a dental care service is needed Limit what we request from you or your PROVIDER to information that is needed to review the service in

question Request all information necessary to make the UM decision including pertinent clinical information Provide you and your PROVIDER prompt notification of the UM decision consistent with applicable state and

federal law and your dental benefit plan

In the event that BCBSNC does not receive sufficient information to approve coverage for a DENTAL SERVICE within specified time frames BCBSNC will notify you of an ADVERSE BENEFIT DETERMINATION in writing The notice will explain how you may appeal the ADVERSE BENEFIT DETERMINATION

Retrospective Reviews (Post-Service) BCBSNC reviews the coverage of DENTAL SERVICES after you receive them (retrospectivepost-service reviews) Retrospective review may include a review to determine if services received in an EMERGENCY setting qualify as an EMERGENCY BCBSNC will make all retrospective review decisions and notify you and your PROVIDER of its decision within a reasonable time but no later than 30 days from the date BCBSNC received the request In the event of an ADVERSE BENEFIT DETERMINATION BCBSNC will notify you and your PROVIDER in writing within five business days of the decision All decisions will be based on CLINICAL NECESSITY and whether the service received was a benefit under this dental benefit plan

Evaluating New Technology In an effort to allow for continuous quality improvement BCBSNC has processes in place to evaluate new dental technology procedures and equipment These policies allow us to determine the best services and products to offer our MEMBERS They also help us keep pace with the ever-advancing dental field Before implementing any new or revised policies we review professionally supported scientific literature as well as state and federal guidelines regulations recommendations and requirements We then seek additional input from PROVIDERS who know the needs of the patients they serve

18

WHAT IF YOU DISAGREE WITH OUR DECISION

The Appeals Process

Delegated AppealsThe Appeals Process


In addition to the UM program BCBSNC offers an appeals process for our MEMBERS

If you want to appeal an ADVERSE BENEFIT DETERMINATION or have a GRIEVANCE you have the right to request that BCBSNC review the decision or GRIEVANCE through the appeals process The appeals process is voluntary and may be requested by the MEMBER or an authorized representative acting on the MEMBERS behalf with the MEMBERS written consent In the event you appoint an authorized representative references to you under this section mean you or your authorized representative (ie the authorized representative may pursue your rights and shall receive all notices and benefit determinations) You may request at no charge reasonable access to and copies of all documents records and other information relevant to your claim for benefits

The Appeals Process Within the appeals process there are specified time frames for filing an appeal and notifying you or your PROVIDER of the decision For appeals relating to an ADVERSE BENEFIT DETERMINATION the review must be requested in writing within 180 days of an ADVERSE BENEFIT DETERMINATION or by the date indicated on your Explanation of Benefits

Any request for review should include SUBSCRIBERS ID number SUBSCRIBERS name Patients name The nature of the appeal Any other information that may be helpful for the review

To request a form to submit a request for review visit our website at bcbsnccom or call BCBSNC Customer Service at the number listed in Who To Contact

All correspondence related to a request for a review through BCBSNCs appeals process should be sent to BCBSNC Claims Unit PO Box 2100 Winston Salem NC 27102-2100

If you are dissatisfied with an ADVERSE BENEFIT DETERMINATION you have the right to appeal Within three business days after receipt of a review request BCBSNC will send you an acknowledgement letter which will include the name address and phone number of the appeals coordinator and instructions on how to submit written materials During the appeals process you may - request and receive from us all information that applies to your appeal - provide andor present written evidence and testimony - receive in advance any new information that BCBSNC may use in making a decision or any new or additional

rationale so that you have an opportunity to respond prior to the notice of the final adverse benefit determination

BCBSNC asks that you send all of the written material you feel is necessary to make a decision BCBSNC will use the material provided in the request for review along with other available information to reach a decision You will be notified in clear written terms of the decision within a reasonable time but no later than 30 days from the date BCBSNC received the request You may then request all information that was relevant to the review

Delegated Appeals BCBSNC delegates responsibility for appeals to ACS Benefit Services Inc (ACS) ACS is a wholly owned subsidiary of BCBSNC but operates as a separate independent company from BCBSNC Please forward written appeals to

ACS Benefit Services Inc PO Box 2100 Winston Salem NC 27012-2100

19

ADDITIONAL TERMS OF YOUR COVERAGE

Benefits to Which MEMBERS Are Entitled

BCBSNCs Disclosure of Protected Health Information (PHI)

PROVIDER Reimbursement

BCBSNC Modifications

BCBSNC Notifications

BCBSNC Contract


Benefits to Which MEMBERS Are Entitled The benefits described in this benefit booklet are provided only for MEMBERS These benefits and the right to receive payment cannot be transferred to another person At the option of BCBSNC payment for services will be made to the PROVIDER of the services or BCBSNC may choose to pay the SUBSCRIBER The MEMBER is responsible for paying the PROVIDER in full and filing a claim

Benefits for COVERED SERVICES specified in this dental benefit plan will be provided only for services and supplies that are performed by a PROVIDER as specified in this dental benefit plan and regularly included in the ALLOWED AMOUNT BCBSNC establishes coverage determination guidelines that specify how services and supplies must be billed in order for payment to be made under this dental benefit plan

Any amounts paid by BCBSNC for noncovered services or that are in excess of the benefit provided under your Dental Blue for Individuals coverage may be recovered by BCBSNC BCBSNC may recover the amounts by deducting from a MEMBERS future claims payments This can result in a reduction or elimination of a future claim payment BCBSNC will recover amounts we have paid for work related accidents injuries or illnesses covered under state workers compensation laws upon a final adjudication of the claim or an order of the applicable state agency approving a settlement agreement It is the legal obligation of the MEMBER the employer or the workers compensation insurer (whoever is responsible for payment of the medical expenses) to notify BCBSNC in writing that there has been a final adjudication or settlement

PROVIDERS are independent contractors and they are solely responsible for injuries and damages to MEMBERS resulting from misconduct or negligence

BCBSNCs Disclosure of Protected Health Information (PHI) At BCBSNC we take your privacy seriously We handle all PHI as required by state and federal laws and regulations and accreditation standards We have developed a privacy notice that explains our procedures To obtain a copy of the privacy notice visit our website at bcbsnccom or call BCBSNC Customer Service at the number listed in Who to Contact

PROVIDER Reimbursement Benefits are paid based on the ALLOWED AMOUNT MEMBERS are responsible for any amounts over the ALLOWED

AMOUNT if services are performed by a PROVIDER who does not contract with BCBSNC ie deductibles coinsurance and charges not covered by BCBSNC such as amounts above benefit maximums MEMBERS are responsible for the full cost of noncovered services PROVIDERS who do not contract with BCBSNC may bill you directly If you are billed you will be responsible for paying the bill and filing a claim with BCBSNC

BCBSNC Modifications No one may waive or change the coverage other than an officer authorized by the Board of Trustees However if any provision of this dental benefit plan is in conflict with the statutes of North Carolina it should be considered to be automatically amended to conform to the minimum requirements of such statutes This benefit booklet together with any amendments and applications for coverage is the entire agreement between you and BCBSNC Any changes must be in writing

BCBSNC Notifications Any notice sent to a MEMBER custodial parent or legal guardian is considered received by the MEMBER custodial parent or legal guardian when deposited in the United States mail with postage prepaid addressed to the MEMBER custodial parent legal guardian or agent at the address as shown on BCBSNCs records

BCBSNC Contract This policy is made executed and delivered in the State of North Carolina and it and the member coverage provided shall be governed under the laws of the State of North Carolina except to the extent preempted by federal law Any provision of this policy that conflicts with the laws of the State of North Carolina is amended to conform to the minimum requirements of such laws This policy is a contract between you and BCBSNC which is an independent corporation operating under a license from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield plans permitting BCBSNC to use the Blue Cross and Blue Shield service marks in the state of North Carolina BCBSNC is not contracting as an agent of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association You hereby acknowledge and agree that you have not entered into this policy based upon representations by any person other than BCBSNC and that no person entity or organization other than BCBSNC shall be held accountable or liable to you for any obligations to you created under this policy This paragraph shall not create any additional obligations whatsoever on the part of BCBSNC other than those obligations created under other provisions of this agreement

20

Notice of Claim

Limitation of Actions

ADDITIONAL TERMS OF YOUR COVERAGE (cont)

Notice of Claim BCBSNC will not be liable for payment of benefits unless proper notice is furnished to BCBSNC that COVERED SERVICES

have been provided to a MEMBER If the MEMBER files the claim written notice must be given to BCBSNC within 18 months after the MEMBER incurs the COVERED SERVICE except in the absence of legal capacity of the MEMBER The notice must be on an approved claim form and include the data necessary for BCBSNC to determine benefits

Limitation of Actions No legal action may be taken to recover benefits for 60 days after the Notice of Claim has been given as specified above and until you have exhausted all administrative remedies Please see What If You Disagree with our Decision for details regarding the appeals process No legal action may be taken later than three years from the date services are INCURRED

21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY

ADVERSE BENEFIT DETERMINATION A denial reduction or termination of or failure to provide or make full or partial payment for a benefit including one that results from the application of any utilization review or a failure to cover an item or service for which benefits are otherwise provided because it is determined to be EXPERIMENTAL or INVESTIGATIONAL or not CLINICALLY NECESSARY or appropriate Rescission of coverage and initial eligibility determinations are also included as adverse benefit determinations

ALLOWED AMOUNT The charge that BCBSNC determines is reasonable for COVERED SERVICES provided to a MEMBER The allowed amount will be the lesser of the PROVIDERS billed charge or a reasonable charge established by BCBSNC using a methodology that is applied to comparable PROVIDERS for similar services under a similar dental benefit plan Some procedures charged separately by the PROVIDER may be combined into one procedure for reimbursement purposes

BENEFIT PERIOD The period of time as stated in the Summary of Benefits during which charges for COVERED SERVICES provided to a MEMBER must be INCURRED in order to be eligible for payment by BCBSNC A charge shall be considered INCURRED on the date the service or supply was provided to a MEMBER

BENEFIT PERIOD MAXIMUM The maximum amount of charges for COVERED SERVICES or number of visits in a BENEFIT PERIOD that will be covered for a MEMBER Services in excess of a benefit period maximum are not COVERED SERVICES and MEMBERS may be responsible for the entire amount of the PROVIDERS billed charge

CERTIFICATION The determination by BCBSNC that services materials or drugs have been reviewed and based on the information provided satisfy our requirements for CLINICALLY NECESSARY services and supplies appropriateness dental care setting level of care and effectiveness

CLINICALLY NECESSARY (or CLINICAL NECESSITY) Those COVERED SERVICES materials or supplies that are a) Provided for the diagnosis treatment cure or relief of a dental condition illness injury or disease and not for

EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATIONAL or COSMETIC purposes except as specifically covered by your dental benefit plan

b) Necessary for and appropriate to the diagnosis treatment cure or relief of a dental condition illness injury disease or its symptoms

c) Within generally accepted standards of dental care in the community and d) Not solely for the convenience of the insured the insureds family or the PROVIDER For clinically necessary services BCBSNC may compare the cost-effectiveness of alternative services settings materials or supplies when determining which of the services materials or supplies will be covered and in what setting clinically necessary services are eligible for coverage

CONGENITAL Existing at and usually before birth referring to conditions that are apparent at birth regardless of their causation

COSMETIC To improve appearance This does not include restoration of physiological function that would be considered a COVERED SERVICE

COVERED SERVICE(S) A service material drug supply or equipment specified in this benefit booklet for which MEMBERS are entitled to benefits in accordance with the terms and conditions of this dental benefit plan Any services in excess of a BENEFIT PERIOD MAXIMUM are not covered services

DENTAL SERVICE(S) Dental care or treatment provided by a DENTIST or other professional PROVIDER in the DENTISTS office to a covered MEMBER while the policy is in effect provided such care or treatment is recognized by BCBSNC as a generally accepted form of care or treatment according to prevailing standards of dental practice

DENTIST A dental practitioner who is duly licensed and qualified under the law of jurisdiction in which treatment is received to provide DENTAL SERVICES perform dental surgery or administer anesthetics for dental surgery All services performed must be within the scope of license or certification to be eligible for reimbursement

DEPENDENT A MEMBER other than the SUBSCRIBER as specified in When Coverage Begins and Ends

22

GLOSSARY(cont)

EFFECTIVE DATE The date on which coverage for a MEMBER begins according to When Coverage Begins and Ends

EMERGENCY Dental condition or symptom resulting from a dental disease that arises suddenly and in the judgment of a reasonable person requires immediate care and treatment and such treatment is sought or received within 24 hours of onset

EXPERIMENTAL See INVESTIGATIONAL

GRIEVANCE Grievances include dissatisfaction with our decisions policies or actions related to the availability delivery or quality of DENTAL SERVICES or with the contractual relationship between the MEMBER and BCBSNC

HOSPITAL An accredited institution for the treatment of the sick that is licensed as a hospital by the appropriate state agency in the state where located or a state tax-supported institution All services performed must be within the scope of license or certification to be eligible for reimbursement

IDENTIFICATION CARD (ID Card) The card issued to our MEMBERS upon enrollment that provides MEMBER identification numbers names of MEMBERS and key benefit information phone numbers and addresses

INCURRED The date on which a MEMBER receives the service drug equipment or supply for which a charge is made

INVESTIGATIONAL (EXPERIMENTAL) The use of a service or supply including but not limited to treatment procedure facility equipment material drug or device that BCBSNC does not recognize as standard dental care of the condition disease illness or injury being treated The following criteria are the basis for BCBSNCs determination that a service or supply is investigational a) Services or supplies requiring federal or other governmental body approval such as drugs and devices that do not have

unrestricted market approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or final approval from any other governmental regulatory body for use in treatment of a specified condition Any approval that is granted as an interim step in the regulatory process is not a substitute for final or unrestricted market approval

b) There is insufficient or inconclusive scientific evidence in peer-reviewed dental literature to permit BCBSNCs evaluation of the therapeutic value of the service or supply

c) There is inconclusive evidence that the service or supply has a beneficial effect on dental outcomes d) The service or supply under consideration is not as beneficial as any established alternatives e) There is insufficient information or inconclusive scientific evidence that when utilized in a non-investigational setting

the service or supply has a beneficial effect on dental outcomes and is as beneficial as any established alternatives If a service or supply meets one or more of the criteria it is deemed investigational except as specifically covered by your dental benefit plan Determinations are made solely by BCBSNC after independent review of scientific data Opinions of experts in a particular field andor opinions and assessments of nationally recognized review organizations may also be considered by BCBSNC but are not determinative or conclusive

MEMBER A SUBSCRIBER or DEPENDENT who is currently enrolled in this dental benefit plan and for whom premiums are paid

PROVIDER An individual or entity accredited licensed or certified where required in the state of practice performing within the scope of license or certification All services performed must be within the scope of license or certification to be eligible for reimbursement

SUBSCRIBER The MEMBER who was listed on the application as the primary applicant and who is eligible and enrolled for coverage under this dental benefit plan

SUFFICIENT NOTICE Sufficient notice is required for nonrenewal of this dental benefit plan in specified circumstances and may vary as follows (1) if during your first year of coverage or if during the first year following any lapse reinstatement or re-enrollment sufficient notice shall be 30 days written notice or (2) if after you have had one continuous year of coverage or more sufficient notice shall be the equivalent of one fourth of the months that you have had continuous coverage from the first anniversary of the issue date reinstatement or re-enrollment whichever date is most recent to the date of mailing such notice However in no event shall the period of required notice exceed two years For example if you have had your policy for 2 years we must provide you with

23

GLOSSARY(cont)

6 months notice before cancelling your policy in circumstances requiring sufficient notice If you have had your policy for 9 years or more we must provide you with a written notice of two years before cancelling your policy in circumstances requiring sufficient notice

UTILIZATION MANAGEMENT (UM) A set of formal processes that are used to evaluate the CLINICAL NECESSITY quality of care cost-effectiveness and appropriateness of many DENTAL SERVICES including procedures treatments devices materials PROVIDERS and facilities

WAITING PERIOD The amount of time that must pass before a SUBSCRIBER or DEPENDENT is eligible to be covered for benefits under the terms of this dental benefit plan

24

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Frequently Asked Questions Dental Blue for SeniorsSM

Q Do I have to see a dentist in the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC) provider network

A We encourage you to use a network provider but Dental Blue for Individuals gives you the freedom to see any licensed dentist that you wish However you will save on your out-of-pocket dental expenses if you use an in-network dental provider These dental providers are credentialed and approved by BCBSNC

Q Why should I get my dental care from a participating network provider

A When you receive covered services from a participating dental provider you are not responsible for any charges over the allowed amount which means you can save on your out-of-pocket expenses for dental services

Q How do I know if my dental provider is participating in your dental network

A You can access the directory of participating dental providers by visiting our Website at wwwbcbsnccom

Q What is a waiting period and how does it apply to my dental coverage

A A waiting period is the period of time from your effective date of coverage to the date when you can begin to receive benefits for a covered dental service With Dental Blue for Individuals the waiting period for Basic dental services is six months and 12 months for Major dental services Your waiting periods may be waived or reduced by submitting proof of prior dental coverage if there is no more than 63 days between prior dental coverage and the new application date Please refer to your benefit booklet for a listing of Basic and Major dental services

Q Will there be a copyament for this plan

A Yes Dental Blue for Seniors does have a $25 copayment per visit for Diagnostic amp Preventive services only

Q What dental services are subject to my dental deductible

A Your $75 dental deductible applies to Basic and Major dental services After this deductible is met BCBSNC will pay 60 percent of Basic and 50 percent of Major dental services based on the allowable charge up to your benefit period maximum Each covered member under your dental policy has a $75 deductible to meet for Basic and Major dental services

Q How is the allowable charge determined

A The BCBSNC allowable charge is based on the 90th percentile of the fee schedule established by BCBSNC This means that 90 percent of dentists in the ZIP code where the services were provided charge equal to or less than the allowable charge

Q How do I file a dental claim

A If your dentist is a participating provider in the BCBSNC network or accepts assignment of benefits your provider will submit the dental claim to BCBSNC on your behalf If your provider does not participate in the BCBSNC network or does not accept assignment of benefits you should pay the

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS(cont)

dentist in full and submit a claim to BCBSNC so that you can be reimbursed Simply complete a dental claim form and mail it to us within 18 months of the date of your services Please send the completed claim form to us at

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Dental Claims Unit PO Box 2100 Winston-Salem NC 27102-2100

To request dental claim forms (Seniors) please visit our Website at bcbsnccom and select Get Forms from the Member page or call us at 1-800-305-6638

Q How can customer service assist me

A Call 1-800-305-6638 when you have questions regarding dental claims payment your dental Explanation of Benefits (EOBs) pre-treatment estimates and other general questions regarding your dental benefits

Representatives are available to assist you from 800 am to 900 pm EST Monday through Friday

Call 1-888-206-4697 when you have questions regarding billing enrollment or to make changes to your dental policy

Q How does my dentist know if Im eligible to receive dental benefits

A Each time you visit the dentist present your ID card Additionally your dentist can call 1-800-305-6638 to verify your benefits and eligibility

Q Is orthodontic care covered

A No Dental Blue for Individuals does not provide coverage for orthodontic care

Q If I cancel my Dental Blue for Individuals coverage how soon can I reapply

A If you chose to cancel your dental coverage or it is terminated for any reason you may not reapply for 12 months from your termination date

Q When are my Dental Blue for Individuals monthly premiums subject to change

A You may experience a change in your monthly premiums at the time of your annual renewal which is January 1 of each year or when you add or remove dependents

Q Can I change who is covered on the policy

A You may apply to cover your spouse under your policy at the time of initial enrollment If you do not enroll your spouse at the time of your initial enrollment of coverage you cannot enroll them later unless there is a qualifying event status change such as marriage or divorce However you can purchase a separate policy to cover your spouse


WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY


TABLE OF CONTENTS (cont)

LIMITATION OF ACTIONS 21

GLOSSARY22













3

WHO TO CONTACT

WHO TO CONTACT


Website mybcbsnccom


4

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



pays



Benefits

DENTAL SERVICES




After








60 after deductible

50 after deductible

$75

$1000


60 after deductible

50 after deductible

$75

$1100


60 after deductible

50 after deductible

$75

$1200


M60Senior-s 812 5




HOW TO FILE A CLAIM

PREMIUM PAYMENTS












6







7


DEDUCTIBLES

COINSURANCE

COPAYMENT











A Total Bill $500 $500 $500







$0 $0 $0




8

COVERED SERVICES


BASIC SERVICES

MAJOR SERVICES

COVERED SERVICES


















9
















five years)

10























charting arch)


11

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

WHAT IS NOT COVERED
















Brush biopsy




12

C


Cone beam








Cytology samples




Interim dentures











13



















R





Sealants

14











15



Waiting Periods

TYPES OF COVERAGE


REPORTING CHANGES







older










16













17



















18


The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY














3

WHO TO CONTACT

WHO TO CONTACT


Website mybcbsnccom


4

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



pays



Benefits

DENTAL SERVICES




After








60 after deductible

50 after deductible

$75

$1000


60 after deductible

50 after deductible

$75

$1100


60 after deductible

50 after deductible

$75

$1200


M60Senior-s 812 5




HOW TO FILE A CLAIM

PREMIUM PAYMENTS












6







7


DEDUCTIBLES

COINSURANCE

COPAYMENT











A Total Bill $500 $500 $500







$0 $0 $0




8

COVERED SERVICES


BASIC SERVICES

MAJOR SERVICES

COVERED SERVICES


















9
















five years)

10























charting arch)


11

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

WHAT IS NOT COVERED
















Brush biopsy




12

C


Cone beam








Cytology samples




Interim dentures











13



















R





Sealants

14











15



Waiting Periods

TYPES OF COVERAGE


REPORTING CHANGES







older










16













17



















18


The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY


WHO TO CONTACT

WHO TO CONTACT


Website mybcbsnccom


4

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



pays



Benefits

DENTAL SERVICES




After








60 after deductible

50 after deductible

$75

$1000


60 after deductible

50 after deductible

$75

$1100


60 after deductible

50 after deductible

$75

$1200


M60Senior-s 812 5




HOW TO FILE A CLAIM

PREMIUM PAYMENTS












6







7


DEDUCTIBLES

COINSURANCE

COPAYMENT











A Total Bill $500 $500 $500







$0 $0 $0




8

COVERED SERVICES


BASIC SERVICES

MAJOR SERVICES

COVERED SERVICES


















9
















five years)

10























charting arch)


11

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

WHAT IS NOT COVERED
















Brush biopsy




12

C


Cone beam








Cytology samples




Interim dentures











13



















R





Sealants

14











15



Waiting Periods

TYPES OF COVERAGE


REPORTING CHANGES







older










16













17



















18


The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY


SUMMARY OF BENEFITS

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



pays



Benefits

DENTAL SERVICES




After








60 after deductible

50 after deductible

$75

$1000


60 after deductible

50 after deductible

$75

$1100


60 after deductible

50 after deductible

$75

$1200


M60Senior-s 812 5




HOW TO FILE A CLAIM

PREMIUM PAYMENTS












6







7


DEDUCTIBLES

COINSURANCE

COPAYMENT











A Total Bill $500 $500 $500







$0 $0 $0




8

COVERED SERVICES


BASIC SERVICES

MAJOR SERVICES

COVERED SERVICES


















9
















five years)

10























charting arch)


11

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

WHAT IS NOT COVERED
















Brush biopsy




12

C


Cone beam








Cytology samples




Interim dentures











13



















R





Sealants

14











15



Waiting Periods

TYPES OF COVERAGE


REPORTING CHANGES







older










16













17



















18


The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY





HOW TO FILE A CLAIM

PREMIUM PAYMENTS












6







7


DEDUCTIBLES

COINSURANCE

COPAYMENT











A Total Bill $500 $500 $500







$0 $0 $0




8

COVERED SERVICES


BASIC SERVICES

MAJOR SERVICES

COVERED SERVICES


















9
















five years)

10























charting arch)


11

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

WHAT IS NOT COVERED
















Brush biopsy




12

C


Cone beam








Cytology samples




Interim dentures











13



















R





Sealants

14











15



Waiting Periods

TYPES OF COVERAGE


REPORTING CHANGES







older










16













17



















18


The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY








7


DEDUCTIBLES

COINSURANCE

COPAYMENT











A Total Bill $500 $500 $500







$0 $0 $0




8

COVERED SERVICES


BASIC SERVICES

MAJOR SERVICES

COVERED SERVICES


















9
















five years)

10























charting arch)


11

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

WHAT IS NOT COVERED
















Brush biopsy




12

C


Cone beam








Cytology samples




Interim dentures











13



















R





Sealants

14











15



Waiting Periods

TYPES OF COVERAGE


REPORTING CHANGES







older










16













17



















18


The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY



DEDUCTIBLES

COINSURANCE

COPAYMENT











A Total Bill $500 $500 $500







$0 $0 $0




8

COVERED SERVICES


BASIC SERVICES

MAJOR SERVICES

COVERED SERVICES


















9
















five years)

10























charting arch)


11

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

WHAT IS NOT COVERED
















Brush biopsy




12

C


Cone beam








Cytology samples




Interim dentures











13



















R





Sealants

14











15



Waiting Periods

TYPES OF COVERAGE


REPORTING CHANGES







older










16













17



















18


The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY


COVERED SERVICES


BASIC SERVICES

MAJOR SERVICES

COVERED SERVICES


















9
















five years)

10























charting arch)


11

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

WHAT IS NOT COVERED
















Brush biopsy




12

C


Cone beam








Cytology samples




Interim dentures











13



















R





Sealants

14











15



Waiting Periods

TYPES OF COVERAGE


REPORTING CHANGES







older










16













17



















18


The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY

















five years)

10























charting arch)


11

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

WHAT IS NOT COVERED
















Brush biopsy




12

C


Cone beam








Cytology samples




Interim dentures











13



















R





Sealants

14











15



Waiting Periods

TYPES OF COVERAGE


REPORTING CHANGES







older










16













17



















18


The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY
























charting arch)


11

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

WHAT IS NOT COVERED
















Brush biopsy




12

C


Cone beam








Cytology samples




Interim dentures











13



















R





Sealants

14











15



Waiting Periods

TYPES OF COVERAGE


REPORTING CHANGES







older










16













17



















18


The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY


WHAT IS NOT COVERED

WHAT IS NOT COVERED
















Brush biopsy




12

C


Cone beam








Cytology samples




Interim dentures











13



















R





Sealants

14











15



Waiting Periods

TYPES OF COVERAGE


REPORTING CHANGES







older










16













17



















18


The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY



Cone beam








Cytology samples




Interim dentures











13



















R





Sealants

14











15



Waiting Periods

TYPES OF COVERAGE


REPORTING CHANGES







older










16













17



















18


The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY




















R





Sealants

14











15



Waiting Periods

TYPES OF COVERAGE


REPORTING CHANGES







older










16













17



















18


The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY












15



Waiting Periods

TYPES OF COVERAGE


REPORTING CHANGES







older










16













17



















18


The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY




Waiting Periods

TYPES OF COVERAGE


REPORTING CHANGES







older










16













17



















18


The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY














17



















18


The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY




















18


The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY



The Appeals Process














19







BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY








BCBSNC Contract












20

Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY


Notice of Claim






21

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY


GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY
















22

GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY


GLOSSARY(cont)

















23

GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY


GLOSSARY(cont)




24






































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY







































WHO TO CONTACT

SUMMARY OF BENEFITS



COVERED SERVICES

WHAT IS NOT COVERED





GLOSSARY


DENTAL BLUE FOR INDIVIDUALS · Dental Blue for Individuals gives you the freedom to choose any...

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Transcript of DENTAL BLUE FOR INDIVIDUALS · Dental Blue for Individuals gives you the freedom to choose any...