Wisconsin dentists shared they are concerned about the integrity of oral healthcare in the state after Delta Dental of Wisconsin acquired Cherry Tree Dental, Fox 11 Oct. 2.
Five notes:
1. Delta Dental of Wisconsin announced it purchased Cherry Tree Dental, a DSO with locations in Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan and Minnesota, in July.
2. The acquisition has drawn concerns from the Wisconsin Dental Association, the American Dental Association, the American Economic Liberties Project and the Alliance of Independent Dentists.
3. A public hearing was recently held by the Wisconsin Office of the Commissioner of Insurance to discuss internal restructuring planned by Delta Dental of Wisconsin that requires the department’s approval.
4. Christian Marsh, DDS, raised concerns about monopolization of the insurance industry, while Mark Paget, the executive director of the Wisconsin Dental Association, raised concerns about patient care and provider independence.
5. Although the state recommended approval of DDW’s restructuring, OCI will not make a final decision until all public comments are received later this month.
