YOUR HEALTH. YOUR DENTIST. YOUR CHOICE.
We’re not a “Preferred Provider”, and that’s a choice we’re very comfortable with.
If you’ve ever searched for a dentist through your private health fund, you’ve probably seen phrases like “Preferred Provider”, “Members’ Choice” or “First Choice”. Sounds impressive, doesn’t it? Almost like someone has handed that preferred provider a gold star and declared:
“This one is better.” But that’s not actually what it means.
“Preferred” is a financial arrangement, not a clinical achievement. A preferred provider has entered into a commercial relationship with a private health fund. A health fund will recommend a particular dentist to their policyholders, and in return, this dentist will accept a set fee.
Depending on your policy, that may mean you receive a higher rebate, a discount, or a lower out-of-pocket cost. It is not a measure of the standard of care you receive.
An independent dentist can be every bit as experienced and qualified, or even more so, but they’ve simply chosen not to participate in that particular arrangement. And that’s us.
For over 50 years, our practice has built relationships with our patients based on trust, respect, continuity and consistent quality of care. That trust cannot be bought with a preferred-provider label.
So why don’t we join?
We’d rather choose what is right for our patients than have a health fund influence on how we operate.We want the freedom to make decisions based on what our patients actually need, not what a contract requires.
Remaining independent maintains our complete freedom when it comes to treatment planning, materials, laboratories, techniques and the time we dedicate to your care.
It ensures we are able to uphold the highest standards and deliver the best possible outcomes. We’d rather invest in quality than chase volume.
“But I get a better rebate with a preferred provider.”
You might, and we completely understand that saving money matters. But it’s important to remember that a higher rebate doesn’t make a better dentist. It simply means your health fund has chosen to offer you a different benefit at a preferred provider. We do not charge more because we are independent. Your out-of-pocket fees may be different because your health fund chooses to adjust your rebate with an independent dentist. Your policy may also have annual limits, item limits, waiting periods, sub-limits and other conditions, so it’s important to understand exactly what your policy covers.
So, what do we think you should do?
Ask questions. When choosing your dentist, ask yourself: is it because you genuinely believe they’re the right dentist for you, or because your health fund has incentivised you financially by putting their name at the top of a list?
Check your health-fund policy. Understand your rebate. And then choose your dentist based on the care you actually want. Because “preferred” by your health fund doesn’t necessarily mean preferred by you.
Dental care is personal. It’s about trust, experience, continuity, communication and knowing the person looking after your health. Your health fund doesn’t know your mouth. Your health fund knows your policy, your rebates, and your annual limits.
We know you. We know your dental history, your previous treatment, your concerns, your preferences. We think that’s more important.
Do we still accept health funds?
We continue to accept all major health funds. Eligible benefits can be claimed on the spot using HICAPS, subject to your individual policy, available benefits and limits.
If you’re unsure how much your health fund will pay, give them a call. They’ll be able to tell you exactly what your policy covers. We’ll take care of the dentistry.
Don’t let your health fund choose your dentist for you.
Your Health. Your Dentist. Your Choice.
To all our patients who continue to place their trust and dental care in our hands, we sincerely thank you for choosing us. We remain committed to providing the highest standard of care and will always do our best to ensure your dental health and wellbeing are our priority.
Brighter Smiles Dapto Dental
🌐 Visit [https://brightersmilesdaptodental.com.au/] to schedule your checkup.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What does it mean if my dentist is not a preferred provider?
It means the dentist has chosen not to participate in a specific health-fund provider arrangement. It does not indicate the quality of their dental care.
Can I still use my health fund at an independent dentist?
Yes. Eligible dental benefits can still be claimed through HICAPS, depending on your policy and available benefits.
Will my dental rebate be different with an independent dentist?
It may be. Your health fund determines the rebate available under your policy, so your out-of-pocket cost may differ.
How do I check my dental health-fund rebate?
Contact your health fund before treatment to confirm your rebate, annual limits, waiting periods and other policy conditions.
Why does your dental practice choose to remain independent?
We value the freedom to make treatment decisions based on each patient’s needs, instead of being dictated by a Health fund contract.
