California dentists have long been pillars within their communities, providing essential oral health services and promoting overall health. One opportunity for dentists to extend their impact is by teaming up with the California Victim Compensation Board. This initiative not only serves to ease the financial burden of patients who have been victims of crimes but also offers a rewarding way to give back to the community.
What is CalVCB?
CalVCB was established to help victims of violent crimes by alleviating the financial strains that often accompany recovery. The board offers compensation for a wide range of expenses such as medical and dental services, mental health services and income loss. For dentists, this means the potential to provide care to those who might otherwise be unable to pay for it due to circumstances beyond their control.
Learn more about the program or get materials to share with your patients:
- “Crime Hurts Everyone” fact sheet (also available in multiple languages)
- Guidelines and information for dental providers
- “Were You a Victim of Crime?” flyer in English and Spanish
Dental compensation through CalVCB
Recognizing the importance of oral health in overall recovery, CalVCB covers dental expenses for eligible victims. Funding is available for a variety of dental procedures, from restorations to more complex reconstructive services. By participating in this program, dentists can help victims receive the necessary dental interventions with fewer financial barriers.
During the last fiscal year, dentists who partnered with CalVCB provided 266 claimants with more than $1.13 million in treatment of crime-related injuries. Treatments included:
- Repair or replacement of broken or damaged teeth and dentures
- Temporomandibular disorders
- Diagnostic X-rays
- Oral hygiene, if necessary, during crime-related dental procedures
How can dentists participate?
When an eligible patient asks for care, dentists submit a pre-authorization request to CalVCB. These are reviewed and approved on a case-by-case basis. The process is straightforward:
- Visit the CalVCB Website: The first step is to familiarize yourself with the resources and requirements for dental service providers.
- Provider Application: Complete the necessary service provider application forms. This will include documentation of your dental services and professional qualifications.
- Billing Procedures: Learn the specific billing procedures required by CalVCB to ensure that your services are reimbursed efficiently. This involves submitting claims with appropriate documentation of the dental treatment provided.
Once registered, you can fill the pivotal role of facilitating recovery for crime victims. And by informing eligible patients about the program, you can effectively eliminate or reduce the barrier of cost and promote community welfare.
The benefits of giving back
Promoting these resources is more than a professional obligation; it embodies a commitment to community health and strengthens the dentist-patient relationship, ensuring that dignity and comprehensive care are upheld even in the direst circumstances.
Moreover, leveraging programs like CalVCB can enhance the reputation of your dental practice. Patients appreciate businesses that are committed to care for all and support communities in need.