New York State’s new dental plan with Anthem Blue Cross went into effect October 1, after PEF led a multi-union charge to get the state to put the decades-old contract out to bid.
As part of the 2022-2026 PEF/State Agreement, PEF negotiated a $400-a-year dental stipend, which the state had to pay twice before it put the contract out to bid and selected a new plan, costing the state tens of millions of dollars and effectively jump-starting them into action.
The level of benefit is governed by the collective bargaining agreement, including enhancements achieved during previous contract negotiations, such as:
- a higher annual maximum allowance of $3,000 per person
- an increase to $3,000 for the orthodontic lifetime maximum per child
- inclusion of a $600 implant allowance
- long overdue coverage for precious/upgraded metal fillings
These previously negotiated enhanced contractual benefits will continue with Anthem.
PEF members should use this link to search for an in-network dentist:
https://www.anthembluecross.com/mcr/nys-dental
Select “New York State Dental Plan” under Search for a Dental Provider. You will be directed to the XPO Dental Complete network where you can search for providers by address, doctor name or specialty type.
If you need further assistance, contact Anthem Blue Cross at (833) 821-1949.