Dental Trends During COVID-19

Due to the pandemic, dentistry has changed and the effects on how dental procedures are performed and access to care may be permanent. Below are the evolving trends and how Blue Shield is addressing this changing environment.

Dental Care and Provider Trends

• Raised awareness and increased efforts to disinfect dental offices.
• Procedures that generate an aerosol have been temporarily or permanently eliminated.
• Root canal therapy is expected to decline.
• Many recent dental graduates will probably not open a private office.
• There may be a decline in the number of dentists entering orthodontics due to SmileDirectClub.
• Dentistry is rebounding and offices are running more efficiently.

How Blue Shield is Addressing These Trends

• Temporary PPE reimbursement for dentists.
• Several teledentistry codes are reimbursable for virtual care.
• Blue Shield dental PPO members have access to SmileDirectClub.

Learn more about dental trends and SmileDirectClub coverage.

Help Clients Benefit from PPP-2 Loans

The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) was reopened on January 11, 2021 with updated eligibility requirements and the possibility of a second loan for the hardest-hit small businesses.

The new guidelines make it easier for businesses to obtain a first-draw PPP loan and a second-draw PPP loan to be used for eligible payroll and non-payroll expenses, including technology. Software and cloud upgrades, for example, are recognized as critical expenses, potentially including payroll, HR, and HCM platforms to digitize operations and support touchless, mobile-friendly solutions.

The PPP Loan application deadline is March 31, 2021.

Get the details on PPP loan eligibility, amounts, and forgiveness, and learn next steps. 

Stop Buying These 3 Products with FSA Funds

The passage of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) act on March 27, 2020 expands how you can use Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA) funds. However, FSAs do not allow certain types of purchases, including the three listed below.

Products Not to Buy with FSA Funds

1. Masks
2. Multivitamins
3. Weight Loss Items

Learn about eligible FSA expenses and workarounds, and how to get a breakdown of eligible items with a BRi account.

Get The Latest News with Text Messaging!

Your success is important to us, and we’re actively working on new solutions to support you throughout the year. To get the latest news via text messaging in the future, simply provide your cell phone number here.

As always, we'll keep you informed about healthcare issues and news affecting you and your clients. Our knowledgeable team is here to help you succeed.

Questions?
Contact your Claremont team at 800.696.4543 or info@claremontcompanies.com.