The Doctor Is In

The TRICARE Dental Program (TDP) is getting a new contractor. Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (MetLife) is taking over the TDP on May 1, 2012, offering a seamless transition, worldwide network and improved benefits. In fact, 85 percent of the current TDP dentists are already part of MetLife’s provider network.

TRICARE, MetLife and the outgoing TDP contractor, United Concordia, are working together to make the contract switch seamless for TDP’s two million enrollees. There are no new enrollment forms or other paperwork needed to switch over, although new enrollment cards will be provided beginning this month.

If you pay automatically from your paycheck, the change will appear in your April earnings statement. However, if you make automatic payments from a checking account or credit card, you need to contact MetLife to reauthorize this payment.

There are several enhancements to your TDP benefits as a part of new the contract. These include:

• Lower monthly premiums in the first year;
• Access to the MetLife network of more than 161,000 dental offices;
• Increased annual benefit maximum from $1,200 to $1,300;
• Increased lifetime orthodontic maximum from $1,500 to $1,750; and
• Expanded coverage, including tooth colored/white fillings for teeth in the rear of the mouth, a third cleaning for pregnant women and survivor benefits for spouses and children.

MetLife has launched a website, https://mybenefits.metlife.com/tricare with information about the upcoming transition. Use the “Find a Dentist” option to check if your dentist is in the MetLife network. MetLife will update the site as the May 1 launch date approaches. If you have questions about the transition or your dental benefits before April 30, keep using the current toll-free numbers. Contact, enrollment and other TDP information is on www.tricare.mil/tdp.

TDP enrollees can look forward to lower premiums and an improved benefit under the new contract, without having to worry about any interruption to your care. Take care of your teeth – good dental health is important to maintain readiness and part of keeping your whole body healthy.