Cigna has released its virtual care platform for affiliated dentists and patients to leverage during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to an April 14 news release.
The insurer's Dental Virtual Care will be available to more than 16 million members at no cost through May 31. Cigna plans to continue operating the virtual service after the pandemic.
Through the virtual care platform, dentists can consult with patients and triage them in urgent situations. Dentists can also prescribe medications if necessary.
"We fast-tracked our efforts to launch Cigna Dental Virtual Care to help dentists and their patients access an urgent dental consult while minimizing their risk of COVID-19 exposure," said Frederick Scardellette, vice president of Cigna dental and vision. "This virtual solution is a simple and convenient option to help our customers access care during this unprecedented time."
Additionally, Cigna has teamed up with The TeleDentists, a national virtual care dental provider that is affiliated with more than 300 dentists.