Good dentistry isn’t cheap. Cheap dentistry isn’t good.
About ‘Preferred Provider’ or ‘Members Choice’ Dentists:
We often get asked if we’re a ‘Preferred Provider’ or if we plan to become one. So, let’s dive into what that really means and why we’re not part of that club!
Here’s the scoop on ‘Preferred Provider’ or ‘Members Choice’ dentists:
Being a Preferred Provider doesn’t mean the dentist is any better; it’s all about a financial deal between the dentist and the insurance company. This setup lets both sides pocket a bit more cash. Preferred Providers agree to set fees for their services, and in return, the insurance companies recommend them to their policyholders. It’s a win-win for them: the dentist gets more patients, and the insurance company saves on payouts because of the fixed fee structure.
Interestingly, some private health funds even own the practices that are Preferred Providers! Many folks, including health professionals and government officials, think this creates a bit of a conflict of interest. When insurers have so much control over your health and information—and make money from every angle—there’s a lot to consider.
So, while we’re not in the Preferred Provider game, we’re here to offer you the best care without the behind-the-scenes financial shuffling.
Same policy. Same treatment. Same rebate.
So what are the benefits of Tooth Dental not being a ‘Preferred Provider’?
Here’s the fun part: not being a ‘Preferred Provider’ actually means some pretty cool benefits for you!
For starters, we think it makes for better dentists. Our team has worked in both Preferred Provider practices and non-Preferred ones, giving them a great perspective on what works best for you.
Our main focus is YOU, not a big insurance company. We take the time to get to know you, your family, and your unique needs. There are no corporate targets dictating our care—just genuine recommendations for what’s best for you.
While we might not offer ‘gap free’ treatment, that doesn’t mean quality care has to break the bank. Our fees are based on the Australian Dental Association’s average fee report, so you’re getting fair pricing.
We use only top-notch materials, invest the time needed for high-quality work, and all our lab work is done by local small Brisbane businesses —not overseas labs.
And the best part? Our dentists are real, caring people who treat you like family. You’ll never feel like just another number here; we’re all about building lasting relationships and making you part of our dental family.
So, we’re not a Preferred Provider because we prioritize your care and well-being over profit. Your health comes first!
Some light reading:
SBS NEWS – ‘Not value for money’: Dentists slam private health insurance
https://www.sbs.com.au/news/not-value-for-money-dentists-slam-private-health-insurance
Health Voices – Is your private health insurance worth it for dental care? Or is it Time2Switch?
http://healthvoices.org.au/issues/april-2017/private-health-insurance-worth-dental-care-time2switch/
Bite Magazine – The Problem with Preferred Providers
https://bitemagazine.com.au/problem-preferred-providers/
ADA- Senate enquiry into private health insurance
https://www.ada.org.au/News-Media/News-and-Release/Latest-News/Call-for-Senate-Inquiry-into-private-health-insure
Independent Dental Network – Just what is a Preferred Provider?
http://www.independentdentist.com.au/just-health-fund-preferred-provider/
Time to compare or switch. Here’s some great, true comparison sites:
ADA Website
The Government Website about Private Health Insurance