The Department of Veterans Affairs is now providing a VA Dental Insurance Program (VADIP) to Veterans enrolled in the VA health care program and CHAMPVA beneficiaries. VADIP will allow eligible participants the opportunity to purchase dental insurance at a reduced cost. This is part of a three-year voluntary VA pilot program available to 8 million Veterans and 400,000 civilians. Veterans will have the opportunity to purchase dental insurance through MetLife and Delta Dental at a reduced cost. VADIP registration opens on November 15th with coverage beginning on January 1st, 2014.
*Update: The VADIP program has been extended through December 31, 2021 due to the The Department of Veterans Affairs Dental Insurance Reauthorization Act of 2016.
“VA continues to explore innovative ways to help Veterans get access to the care and services they have earned and deserve,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. “This new dental program is another example of VA creating partnerships with the private sector to deliver a range of high-quality care at an affordable cost, for our Nation’s Veterans.”
Multiple plan options will allow participants to select a plan that provides benefits and premiums that meet their dental needs and budget. The offered plans vary and may include diagnostic, preventative, surgical, emergency and endodontic/restorative treatment. Participants are responsible for all premiums, which range from about $10 to $60 per month for individual plans. Each participant will pay a fixed monthly premium for coverage, in addition to any co-payments required by his or her plan.
Free dental services will continue for veterans with “service connected” dental problems.
Eligible veterans and CAMPVA participants interested in participating in VADIP may apply by mail, online or by phone. For details, visit the VA page on the Dental Insurance Program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the program?
Veterans enrolled in the VA health care program and CHAMPVA program beneficiaries are eligible to participate in VADIP.
Does the program affect VA’s existing dental coverage?
Participation in VADIP will not affect Veterans’ eligibility for VA dental services and treatment.
Can my family participate in VADIP?
Dependents of Veterans, except those eligible under CHAMPVA, are not eligible for VADIP; however, separate coverage options may be offered dependents by the insurance carrier.
What services are offered?
Multiple plan options will allow participants to select a plan that provides benefits and premiums that meet their dental needs and budget. The offered plans vary and may include diagnostic, preventative, surgical, emergency and endodontic/restorative treatment.
Is there a mandatory participation period?
The initial participation period will be at least 12 calendar months. Afterward, beneficiaries can renew their participation for another 12-month period or be covered month-to-month, as long as the participant remains eligible for coverage and VA continues VADIP.