Preferred provider: what it actually saves you
Preferred provider: what it actually saves you
“Preferred provider” is one of those phrases that appears on every dental website and is almost never explained. Here is what it actually changes for you.
It is an agreement about price
A health fund and a practice agree a set fee for common treatments. In exchange, members of that fund pay less out of pocket at that practice than they would somewhere with no agreement.
It is not a comment on clinical quality, and it does not mean the fund owns or runs the practice. It is a pricing arrangement, nothing more.
Which funds we hold
We are a preferred provider for Bupa Members First Platinum — Bupa’s top provider tier — and for HCF More for Teeth and nib First Choice.
For eligible members on those funds, routine preventive visits often carry no gap at all. Your own cover level decides that, not us.
Claiming on the day
We have HICAPS, so your claim goes through at reception while you are standing there. You pay the difference, if there is one, and walk out. No forms, no waiting for a reimbursement.
What it does not cover
Waiting periods still apply if you have recently joined or upgraded. Annual limits still apply. And treatment outside your level of cover is still yours to pay for.
If cost is the thing stopping you booking, say so when you call. We would rather tell you the number first than have you sit at home wondering.
Not with one of those funds?
You can still claim with any fund that covers dental — you simply claim at the standard rate rather than the agreed one. We run HICAPS for those too.
See health funds and benefits, or our current new patient offers.
Book a check-up
Aesthetic Mee Dental, Suite 2, 330 High St, Ashburton VIC 3147. Monday to Saturday, free on-site parking, same-day emergency appointments where we can.