Is the ADA doing the right thing in pursuing class action lawsuits against two insurance companies?
In the past year, the ADA has sued two major insurance companies: Aetna Inc. and Wellpoint Health Networks Inc. The Association alleges in both class action civil lawsuits that the insurers have used "flawed" data to reduce reimbursements to "out-of-network" dentists, have libeled nonplan dentists through explanation of benefits forms sent to patients and have interfered with the dentist-patient relationship.
In response to the April JADA Question of the Month, an overwhelming majority of readers (99 percent) said they believe the ADA is doing the right thing in pursuing these lawsuits.
Thirty-four percent of those who provided comments expressed their thanks and gave encouragement. Here is what a few had to say:
- – "Right thing? Absolutely!"
- – "I am very proud of our association standing up with vigor for injustice to the dental profession."
- – "Full speed ahead. Our office is fully supportive."
- – "Thank you so much for advocating for us."
- – "Continue the just fight."
- – "Excellent. Way to go, ADA!"
- – "Go get ’em, tigers!"
Twenty-eight percent of those who provided comments said they thought it was time the Association pursued these matters. Some said the ADA’s actions were "long over due," and others simply said, "It’s about time."
Many respondents also provided their encouragement. "At last, a dental society going to bat for its constituency," said one.
"A thousand times yes!" said another. "It is about time somebody took the bull by the horns."
"I applaud the ADA," said yet another.
Some respondents said the ADA’s actions represent the power of unity. "The ADA is speaking for individuals who otherwise have such diluted voices that they would never be heard," said one.
"Acting alone, we are powerless," said another.
