Enhancing Dental Care Access for Veterans: The Aspen Group's $100 Million Commitment

Expanding Dental Care for Veterans

In a significant initiative to increase dental care accessibility for veterans, The Aspen Group (TAG) has announced a series of new programs as part of a larger commitment of $100 million over five years. This effort not only aims to improve affordability but also seeks to overcome barriers that veterans often face in accessing vital dental services.

Free Enrollment in Aspen Dental Savings Plan

Starting this November, veterans will be able to enroll in the Aspen Dental Savings Plan without any cost for the first year. This initiative includes waiving the usual annual enrollment fee of $49. For the subsequent year, the renewal cost drops to just $29, making it more affordable for those who have served the country. This offer coincides with Aspen Dental's annual Day of Service on November 7, a date dedicated to honoring veterans with free dental care.

Veterans participating in this plan will benefit from average savings of more than 25% on selected dental services. They will also receive benefits such as free exams and X-rays, subject to certain terms and conditions. Importantly, the plan features no waiting periods, annual maximums, or exclusions based on age or pre-existing conditions, which can often hinder timely access to dental care.

Partnership with Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)

In addition to the savings plan, TAG has expanded its benefits through its collaboration with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). As the official dental provider for the VFW, Aspen Dental is offering members and their eligible family members access to the discounted savings plan at a nominal annual rate of $29. This partnership ensures that veterans and their families receive even deeper discounts and prioritized access to scheduling for services.

Dan West, VFW adjutant general, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, "Our members served this country, and it's our job to make sure they have access to the care they earned and deserve." This sentiment reflects TAG's mission to honor those who have served by providing the necessary support for their healthcare needs.

Day of Service: A Commitment to Care

On November 7, as part of its Day of Service, Aspen Dental will open more than 550 of its offices across the nation to provide free dental services for veterans. This year's initiative will also see ClearChoice Dental Implant Centers contributing by committing up to $1 million in full-arch treatment for referred veterans. This act of service highlights Aspen Dental's dedication to supporting the veteran community beyond just financial contributions.

Since its inception in 2014, Aspen Dental's Day of Service has positively impacted over 30,000 veterans, providing more than $28 million worth of dental services. The impact of these initiatives is profound, addressing a critical need for veterans who may otherwise struggle to receive essential care.

About The Aspen Group (TAG)

The Aspen Group (TAG) operates with a mission to enhance healthcare accessibility for all. Supporting over 1,400 locations across 46 states, TAG underpins five healthcare brands, including Aspen Dental, ClearChoice Dental Implant Center, WellNow Urgent Care, Chapter Aesthetic Studio, and Lovet Pet Health Care. Each of these brands is dedicated to improving healthcare standards and ensuring that patients receive quality care tailored to their needs.

TAG also invests in its workforce through The Aspen Group University (TAG U), which focuses on clinical training and leadership development, ensuring that the care provided is of the highest standard and benefits both patients and healthcare professionals alike.

Looking Forward

As TAG continues to roll out these vital programs, the overarching goal remains consistent: to eliminate the hurdles that veterans face in receiving the dental care they deserve. Through strategic partnerships, outreach initiatives, and a focus on community service, The Aspen Group is setting a new standard for dental care accessibility, showcasing a model that other organizations may follow in supporting our veterans.