John P. Cataldo & Associates: Understanding Dental Insurance Is Vital

Online, September 6, 2012 (Newswire.com) - Working professionals realize how important proper dental insurance can be, not only to the health of their mouth, but also to the health of their wallets. An article published at World Dental.org, an online Dental Health Magazine, outlines the importance of dental insurance to adults. John P. Cataldo, a certified public accountant who specializes in the needs of dental practitioners, draws a parallel between the importance of dental insurance for patients and providers.

According to World Dental.org, patients who do not have proper dental insurance cannot expect to access proper dental care. The personal expense to pay for the cost of dental treatments is simply too exorbitant for most individuals who need to undergo advanced therapies like a root canal. The good news is, however, affordable dental care options exist.

A Dental Health Management Organization (DHMO) most often covers general dental care examinations that include preventative cleanings. The article indicates this type of coverage costs, on average, $13 per month. The downfall to this type of dental insurance is that it typically does not cover more advanced restorative dental care treatments.

Preferred Provider Organizations, more often referred to as PPO's, are another common option for those in need of dental insurance. Unlike plans offered by a DMHO, these affordable plans usually cover both preventative and restorative dental treatments. Though about twice the price of a DHMO plan-rates for PPO's range anywhere from $30 to $35 per month-they come with the added bonus of some coverage for extensive dental treatment.

The importance for dental patients to protect their pocketbooks is clear. John P. Cataldo cautions
professionals who own their own dental practices to use the same foresight. Unfortunately,
insurance fraud and embezzlement are not uncommon amongst medical practices. The fast-paced, high-workload environments at most dental offices make them prime candidates for this type of crime.

John P. Cataldo comments, "Embezzlement can have a devastating effect on dental practices. Not just from a financial standpoint, but the emotional impact on the practitioner and the staff as well. Utilizing techniques and controls to minimize your exposure to theft is something every practice should prioritize."

Such techniques include thorough background checks performed prior to hiring new staff members. It is also important to communicate expectations regarding how staff members may prevent and report suspected fraud and embezzlement. The accounting professionals at John P. Cataldo & Associates regularly provide financial analysis aimed at preventing practices from experiencing internal embezzlement.

ABOUT:

John P. Cataldo & Associates has provided accounting, tax and consulting services to the people and businesses of the Bucks County, Pennsylvania area for over 25 years. The firm specializes in the financial services relied upon by dental and medical practices. Three Certified Public Accountants and two accounting paraprofessionals round out the John P. Cataldo team of financial professionals.