Cigna Launches Dental Virtual Care To Improve Access And Protect Customers In Response To COVID-19
Published by Cigna Healthcare Newsroom
Introduction
In response to the unprecedented challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, Cigna has introduced an innovative Dental Virtual Care service designed to improve customer access to essential dental care while ensuring their safety. This move signifies a critical advancement in telehealth, expanding the realm of virtual consultations to dental health. As many dental offices faced closures or limited operations, Cigna’s virtual dental care provides timely, remote access to licensed dental professionals, helping customers navigate their oral health concerns conveniently and securely from home.
What is Cigna Dental Virtual Care?
Cigna Dental Virtual Care is a telehealth platform that connects customers with dental care providers through online video consultations, chat, and remote diagnosis. This service aims to bridge the gap created by physical distancing measures and restrictions on non-emergency dental visits during the pandemic. With this platform, patients can receive professional advice, care recommendations, prescription guidance, and follow-up support without leaving their homes.
Key Features of Cigna Dental Virtual Care
- Access to board-certified dentists via video call or messaging
- Remote diagnosis and personalized treatment planning
- Prescription management and oral health advice
- 24/7 availability for dental health inquiries and emergencies
- Seamless integration with existing Cigna dental plans
- Secure and HIPAA-compliant communication channels
Why Cigna’s Dental Virtual Care Matters During COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic introduced unique challenges to accessing dental care. Traditional dental offices limited their in-person visits to urgent cases, creating delays and anxiety for patients needing dental attention. Here’s why Cigna’s solution is crucial:
- Minimizing COVID-19 Exposure Risk: Virtual consultations reduce unnecessary travel and in-person visits, protecting both customers and dental professionals from virus transmission.
- Continuity of Care: Enables ongoing treatment and monitoring of chronic dental conditions, preventing deterioration and complications.
- Emergency Support: Quick access to dental advice ensures patients handle urgent needs promptly.
- Increased Accessibility: Supports patients in remote locations or those with mobility issues to receive dental care without barriers.
Benefits of Using Cigna Dental Virtual Care
Virtual dental care offers numerous advantages compared to conventional dental visits, especially during a pandemic.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Convenience | Access dental consultations anytime from the safety and comfort of home. |
| Faster Access | Reduce wait times for appointments with immediate virtual consultations. |
| Cost-Effective | Lower costs by avoiding unnecessary emergency room visits and travel expenses. |
| Comprehensive Care | Get advice on prevention, treatment, and management of dental issues virtually. |
| Enhanced Safety | Limit exposure to contagious diseases by minimizing in-person visits. |
How to Access Cigna Dental Virtual Care
Accessing the dental virtual care service is simple and designed with the customer’s ease in mind. Follow these steps:
- Check Eligibility: Verify if your current Cigna dental plan supports virtual care services.
- Set Up Your Account: Log into the Cigna website or mobile app and navigate to the dental virtual care section.
- Schedule an Appointment: Choose a convenient time for a virtual visit or use the 24/7 on-demand option.
- Prepare for Your Consultation: Have your dental history, symptoms, and questions ready to share during the session.
- Join the Virtual Visit: Connect with a licensed dentist through a secure video or chat interface.
- Follow Up: Receive treatment recommendations, prescriptions, or referrals for in-person visits if necessary.
Practical Tips For a Successful Virtual Dental Visit
Maximize the benefits of your virtual dental appointment by applying these helpful tips:
- Ensure a stable internet connection for clear video and audio communication.
- Find a quiet, well-lit space to discuss your dental concerns comfortably.
- Have a flashlight or good lighting to show affected areas during video calls.
- Prepare a list of your symptoms, medical history, and current medications.
- Keep a pen and paper handy for noting down dentist recommendations and next steps.
- Be honest and thorough when describing your dental issues for accurate assessment.
Customer Experiences and Case Studies
Many Cigna customers have already benefited from the Dental Virtual Care service. Here’s a snapshot of typical experiences shared by users:
| Customer | Virtual Care Scenario | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Jane M., Texas | Sudden toothache during weekend | Immediate virtual consultation, prescription sent, pain managed without ER visit |
| Robert L., California | Routine oral health questions during shelter-in-place | Received personalized preventive advice, delayed non-essential dental visit safely |
| Maria K., New York | Follow-up for gum disease treatment | Convenient virtual follow-up appointments, improved treatment adherence |
Looking Ahead: The Future of Dental Care with Cigna
Cigna’s Dental Virtual Care initiative not only responds to the immediate needs presented by COVID-19 but also paves the way for the future of accessible and patient-centered dental care. This model of care is expected to continue evolving, integrating advanced technologies such as AI diagnostics and enhanced remote monitoring to improve outcomes.
As virtual care becomes a staple in managing health, Cigna remains committed to expanding their telehealth services, ensuring that dental care is convenient, affordable, and safe for all customers nationwide.
Conclusion
The launch of Cigna Dental Virtual Care marks an important milestone in healthcare innovation, ensuring that dental services remain available and safe during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. By leveraging telehealth technology, Cigna empowers its customers with a practical solution to maintain oral health without compromising safety or convenience. If you are a Cigna dental plan member, exploring virtual dental care is a smart choice to protect your smile in today’s changing healthcare landscape.
For more information and to start your virtual dental care journey, visit Cigna’s Dental Virtual Care portal today.
