Moon Township Dentist Offers Membership Program

MOON TOWNSHIP (KDKA) -- Dr. Robert Baker has a busy solo dental practice in Moon Township.

"We probably have 30 patients running through the practice in a typical day," he estimates.

With the downturn in the economy, he noticed a drop off of sorts. "When people lose their jobs or lose their benefits, less people -- coming to the dentist becomes more of a luxury."

To offer an alternative to those without dental insurance, he decided to offer "memberships." So far, 50 patients have joined. "It's basically a $400 value that we're giving for $200."

For $200 a year, and $150 for each additional family member, you get two exams, two teeth cleanings, one set of x-rays, a teeth whitening kit and discounts on other services.

"I don't think this is a new idea, I mean, it's new to the area for sure, but I'm sure there are other membership plans out there that aren't as well known, or national, the Quality Dental Plan is a national thing," Dr. Baker said.

It's part of an arrangement with a company called Quality Dental Plan, which Dr. Baker buys into in exchange for regional exclusivity.

"It's similar to a franchise. I pay a monthly fee to the Quality Dental Plan to offer that in my office. Whatever their population basis is, in that radius they won't sell another franchise to someone in this radius right here. So right here in Moon Township - no someone couldn't buy," he explains.

If you have dental insurance through work, the membership probably isn't the most cost effective option. "We don't really offer it to people who have dental insurance through their company."

Whether your local dentist will be offering something like this is hard to say. Several other dental practices I contacted weren't familiar enough with membership arrangements to comment.