Cigna and Paytient Revolutionize Dental Care Access with Flexible Payments

Skipping the Dentist? Not Anymore!

In a groundbreaking initiative, Cigna Healthcare has teamed up with Paytient to enhance access to dental care through a flexible payment solution designed to alleviate financial burdens. The collaboration aims to make dental services more accessible and reduce the number of people avoiding necessary treatments due to cost. This program, which has already shown promising results, is now expanding to reach an additional 2.8 million members across the nation.

A Game-Changer for Dental Health

Prior to this program, many individuals were deterred from seeking essential dental services due to high out-of-pocket costs associated with procedures such as crowns, fillings, and root canals. Data indicates that these costs often exceed typical annual dental benefit caps, leading to delayed or cancelled appointments. For instance, a dental plan might cover only $600 of a $1,200 root canal, leaving patients in difficult situations where they must either forgo care or resort to high-interest credit options.

The introduction of Paytient’s flexible payment solution changes this narrative significantly. By eliminating cost as a barrier, individuals can now opt for necessary treatments without the stress of upfront costs. Manish Naik, the president of Cigna Healthcare's dental and vision businesses, highlights the foundational nature of dental health in overall well-being, emphasizing that this initiative is all about enabling individuals to receive timely care without financial strain.

Measurable Improvements in Care

Results from the program speak volumes about its efficacy. Cigna's survey revealed that 92.9% of members would have skipped vital care if not for the Paytient card. Furthermore, 65% of members receiving preventive care also required major procedures, underlining the importance of early intervention made possible through this flexible approach. The program's impact is evident in the measurable increases in both preventive and critical dental procedures, showcasing the proven benefits of accessible care.

Moreover, the program has been met with high satisfaction rates, boasting a Net Promoter Score of 83.4, which is a significant increase from its launch score of 75.8. Nearly 400 reviews on Trustpilot also reflect a strong rating of 4.89, indicating a positive reception among users.

Focus on Health Equity

One of the most critical aspects of this initiative is its impact on health equity. With many members from communities facing significant financial challenges, the data shows that 44.7% of those utilizing the Paytient card come from areas with high Social Determinants of Health risk. This indicates that flexible payment solutions are essential tools for improving health equity, ensuring that those at higher risk can access the care they need without undue financial stress.

Brian Whorley, founder and CEO of Paytient, encapsulates the mission of the program: "We created Paytient so people could say yes to care—without fear, without delay." This partnership with Cigna serves as a clear example of what is achievable when financial barriers are removed from the healthcare equation.

Expanding Reach and Impact

Cigna's dental program was initially available to large group clients only, such as Hyatt and RR Donnelley. However, with the latest expansion, businesses with as few as 250 members can now offer this benefit to their employees, reflecting a commitment to enhanced employee health across a broader range of organizations. This move not only promotes better health outcomes but also streamlines financial planning for employers by avoiding convoluted negotiations regarding dental benefits.

Overall, the collaboration between Cigna and Paytient is a significant turning point in how dental care is approached. By providing a flexible payment option, they are empowering individuals to prioritize their dental health without the financial burdens that so often accompany necessary treatments. In the long run, this will likely lead to healthier populations and reduced overall healthcare costs, as preventive care is emphasized and achieved.

This initiative represents a vital step towards a healthcare system that prioritizes accessibility and equity, ensuring that no one has to skip their dental appointments due to cost concerns.