DentaQuest has begun administration of the dental benefits program for TennCare, Tennessee's Medicaid program, managing the dental benefits for approximately 750,000 children.
DentaQuest was awarded the contract in April following a bidding process. TennCare's contract with DentaQuest is risk-bearing, meaning that a portion of DentaQuest's fees for administering the program are "at risk," or dependent on achievement of access, quality, and efficiency objectives for the new network. The contract with DentaQuest is for a three-year period, with two one-year extension options.
John Luther, DDS, chief dental officer for DentaQuest, described the arrangement as one that better aligns with where healthcare is going by focusing on programs that can measure and improve care, enhance access to that care for those who need it, while also being mindful of managing overall program costs in a responsible manner.
