Sliding Fee Discount and Charity Care Policy

Effective Date: 7/22/2025

Applies To: All patients receiving services at iDental Dental Office

Policy Statement

iDental Dental Office is committed to providing high-quality dental care to all individuals, regardless of their ability to pay. In alignment with our mission to serve the underserved, we offer a Sliding Fee Discount Program (SFDP) and charity care in accordance with applicable federal guidelines.

No patient will be denied access to services due to inability to pay. iDental does not discriminate in the provision of services on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status.

Scope

This policy applies to all patients who seek and receive care at iDental and who qualify for discounted services based on income and family size, in accordance with current Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG).

Eligibility Criteria

  1. Patients with household income at or below 200% of the FPG may qualify for a discount on eligible services.

  2. Eligibility is determined based on:

    • Completion of a Sliding Fee Discount Program application

    • Submission of documentation verifying household income and family size

  3. Approval is valid for 12 months, after which reapplication is required.

  4. Patients who are uninsured, underinsured, or otherwise unable to pay may apply.

Covered Services

The following services are eligible for consideration under this policy:

  • Preventive care (e.g., examinations, cleanings)

  • Basic restorative services (e.g., fillings)

  • Extractions

  • Dentures

  • Emergency dental services, as defined by:

    • Acute pain

    • Infection

    • Trauma requiring immediate attention

Specialty services are not included, as iDental provides general dentistry only.

Charity Care Provision

“Charity care” refers to services provided at no cost or reduced cost to qualifying patients. Charity determinations are made on a case-by-case basis, considering both clinical necessity and financial hardship. Residency within the iDental service area may be considered as part of the eligibility assessment.

Patient Responsibilities

Patients are expected to:

  • Cooperate with iDental’s financial screening process

  • Provide requested documentation in a timely manner

  • Contribute toward the cost of their care as determined by the discount schedule

  • Seek and maintain insurance coverage when reasonably feasible

Charity care is not a substitute for personal responsibility. Failure to provide accurate information or to comply with the application process may result in denial of discount eligibility.

Non-Discrimination Assurance

In compliance with federal law, iDental does not discriminate based on:

  • Race, color, or national origin

  • Religion or creed

  • Sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation

  • Disability or age

  • Income level or method of payment

All patients will be treated with dignity and respect.

Appeals and Exceptions

Patients denied eligibility for the Sliding Fee Discount or charity care may submit a written appeal within 30 days of the determination. Appeals will be reviewed by the iDental administrative team or a designated review committee. Limited exceptions to the policy may be granted in cases of documented extraordinary hardship.

Policy Availability

This policy is publicly posted and available upon request. Applications for financial assistance may be obtained at the front desk or on our website.