The Department of Veterans Affairs provides comprehensive dental care to Veterans who meet eligibility standards; however, the benefit is not available to many Veterans. VA would like all Veterans and beneficiaries to have access to good oral health. Good oral health is more than just a nice smile or ability to chew favorite foods – it impacts a person’s overall health throughout his or her life.
VA’s Dental Insurance Program (VADIP) offers enrolled Veterans and beneficiaries of VA’s Civilian Health and Medical Program (CHAMPVA) the opportunity to purchase dental insurance at a reduced cost. VA is offering this service through Delta Dental and MetLife.
VADIP is a three-year, national pilot program to assess the feasibility and advisability of providing a premium-based dental insurance plan to eligible individuals. The program is mandated by Public Law 111-163, Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act of 2010.
Eligibility for VADIP
Veterans enrolled in the VA health care program and CHAMPVA program beneficiaries are eligible to participate in VADIP.
Participation in VADIP will not affect Veterans’ eligibility for VA dental services and treatment.
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.
Dental Plan Information
VA has contracted with Delta Dental and MetLife, private insurers, to administer the dental insurance program.
Beginning November 15, 2013, individuals interested in participating in VADIP may complete an application online, over the phone or by mail. A direct link to each provider’s VADIP webpage will be available from www.va.gov/healthbenefits/VADIP.
Coverage under VADIP begins January 1, 2014 and will be provided throughout the United States and its territories. The initial participation period will be at least 12 calendar months. Afterward, VADIP 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.
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.
Each participant will pay a fixed monthly premium for coverage, in addition to any copayments required by his or her plan.
For more information on VADIP, call 1-877-222-VETS (8387) or visit
www.va.gov/healthbenefits/VADIP, and click the insurer’s link for specific information regarding registration, rates and services.