ADA Re-Endorses CareCredit as Patient Financing Option

The American Dental Association (ADA) has again endorsed CareCredit as a recommended patient financing option for members of the ADA. The new endorsement agreement spans the next 7 years.

Endorsements are managed through the ADA Business Resources program. CareCredit, a health, wellness, and personal care credit card, was previously endorsed as a recommended product for ADA member dentists since 2001. The new agreement was put in place to continue to help patients and their families manage the out-of-pocket expenses that so commonly occur with dental treatments and procedures.

According to a recent news release, the magnitude of out-of-pocket expenses can make the difference between a patient receiving or forgoing dental treatment. A study performed by CareCredit showed that 67% of dental patients research how much a procedure will cost, and other financing options, while only 58% of patients research the actual proposed procedure or treatment. According to the same study, almost half of patients, 49%, were likely to apply for or use the CareCredit credit card if the option was available and if the procedure or treatment was estimated to cost at least $1000.

CareCredit provides credit services to patients seeking assistance with healthcare expenses. The credit card is accepted at more than 200,000 healthcare providers and retailers nationwide. In order for CareCredit to have received the ADA Business Resources endorsement, 5 criteria must have been met by the company:

· They must solve a proven ADA member need

· They must be an industry leader

· They must hold a higher customer service standard than other companies in the industry

· They must offer ADA members preferred pricing options

· The company must support the ADA’s mission and goals

The endorsement signifies the long-term relationship between ADA Business Resources and CareCredit. The goal of the relationship has always been to bring more financing options to dental patients.

Dr. James E. Mercer, Chairman of the Board of Directors for ADA Business Resources notes that “for over 15 years, CareCredit has continuously served our members with extraordinary customer service, a product that helps to further treatment acceptance and a deep, long-term involvement in our community.”

In response, Doug Hammond, Senior Vice President and General Manager of CareCredit said “we are honored to have had the privilege to serve ADA members for over 15 years. Research shows that dental patients want and need financing options, and it is our ongoing commitment to assist members and their teams by helping patients access care.”