Department of Labor: Extension of claims submissions

Due to the national emergency caused by COVID-19, the U.S. Department of Labor has passed a regulation that extends the claim submission deadline beyond our standard 12-month timeline.

When reviewing claims for timeliness, Delta Dental will disregard the “Outbreak Period,” which has been identified as the time between March 1, 2020, until 60 days after the announced end of the national emergency, or another date as announced in the future. The change applies to your patients with Delta Dental dental benefits.

The exact timeframe of the extension is dependent on the end of the national emergency. We will keep you updated as information becomes available.

COVID-19 Relief: Provider Advance Payment Program

Delta Dental of Kentucky is committed to supporting our network of dentists as best possible during this challenging time. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and Governor Beshear’s executive order 2020-215, we introduced the Provider Advance Payment Program from Delta Dental of Kentucky.

The Provider Advance Payment Program aimed to provide financial support for operational expenses and continuous essential healthcare services during these unprecedented times. Delta Dental of Kentucky PPO™ and Premier® participating network providers affected by COVID-19 were provided the opportunity to receive an interest-free advance payment from Delta Dental of Kentucky. Advancements of up to 2X of 60% of 2019 average monthly claims reimbursement from Delta Dental of Kentucky ($40,000 maximum advance) were available.

Example:
Average Monthly Claims = $5,000
60% of Monthly Claims = $3,000
2X 60% of Claims = $6,000
Provider is eligible for an interest-free advanced payment of $6,000

Delta Dental of Kentucky's response to COVID-19

In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, Delta Dental of Kentucky remains operational and has enabled employees to work remotely. During this time, we encourage offices to utilize electronic claims submission and register for direct deposit as paper claim check payments processing may be impacted. Free online claims submission and EFT sign-up are both available on DOT. Customer service representatives will be available by phone from 8am – 4pm EST, Monday through Friday and automated services will continue to be available 24/7. Thank you for your patience.

The health and safety of our providers, members and employees remains Delta Dental's top priority as we navigate the disruptions related to COVID-19. Based on the recommendations of federal and state governments, as well as the American Dental Association, dental offices have restricted services to urgent or emergency cases only.

Delta Dental understands some offices may have the capability to perform evaluations via audio or video technology. Unless there is a specific contract exclusion, Delta Dental of Kentucky will provide coverage for D0140 (Problem Focused Examination) whether provided in a dental office or virtually until the public health situation is resolved. The service will be paid based on the coverage/benefits available to the patient through their dental group or individual policy.

Please be mindful of patient privacy when using this technology. Also, know that the Office of Civil Rights (OCR) at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) says it, "will not impose penalties for noncompliance with the regulatory requirements under the HIPAA Rules against covered health care providers in connection with the good faith provision of telehealth during the COVID-19 nationwide public health emergency."

We understand this is an uncertain time for all of us and we will continue to evaluate interim policies as necessary. Thank you for the care you provide to our members, especially during these most challenging times.

For Members

Department of Labor: Extension of claims submissions

COVID-19 Relief: Provider Advance Payment Program

Delta Dental of Kentucky's response to COVID-19

About Delta Dental of Kentucky