VA's discounted dental insurance program began accepting enrollments on November 15 after nearly a year hiatus.
What is VA's dental insurance program?
The VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP) is a private dental insurance program that offers discounted dental insurance to certain veterans and their dependents. It began as a pilot program in 2013 and ended as scheduled in January 2017. However, recent legislation revived the program and extended it through 2021.
Who Can Get VADIP?
Veterans who are enrolled in VA healthcare and their dependents enrolled in CHAMPVA are eligible to enroll in the VADIP program. Those enrolled in the previous pilot program are required to re-enroll in the new one if they want coverage, re-enrollment is not automatic. VADIP is only available in the U.S. and its territories.
How much does VADIP cost and what does it cover?
Like all insurance programs there are many options available at varying costs. The VA says VADIP covers "diagnostic services, preventive services, endodontic and other restorative services, surgical services and emergency services."
The VA also says "while the insurance providers will remain the same [as under the pilot program], plan options, fees and other factors may have changed from those offered under the pilot program." We did some research and found that the monthly premiums for 2018 are nearly double the 2016 premiums, but they are still cheaper than many other dental insurance plans.
How do I get VADIP?
VADIP is being offered by Delta Dental of California and MetLife, you can check out their websites for more information, including costs, services, participating dentists and to enroll in a program.
For more information check out our VADIP details page or the VA's VADIP page.
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