A pair of Manhattan dentists has launched Afora, a dental care membership plan that connects members with dental professionals. Its network of providers offer services at a flat fee, with the goal of providing the nearly 50% of adults in the United States who don’t have dental insurance as well as the 90% of those who do have insurance and get it through their employers with another option.
“Everyone deserves access to quality dental care at prices they can afford,” said Jeffrey Rappaport, DDS, Afora’s cofounder. “I learned from my years in private practice that patients want to trust their dentist and only be charged for services that are necessary. That’s why we created Afora. It works for everyone.”
Afora’s Basic Plan, which costs $25 per month, includes 2 standard cleanings, plus an annual exam and x-rays. It also provides access to clear and transparent pricing and a fee schedule. Members can search Afora’s network of professionals as well. The Premium Plan, at $45 a month, includes 4 standard cleanings, an annual exam and x-rays, a $1,000 voucher toward comprehensive orthodontics, and unlimited $150 vouchers toward whitening treatments.
Patients who need additional services can turn to Afora’s network of dentists who offer services at an agreed-upon price designed to be reasonable. Each provider in the network charges the same fee for the same service, ensuring predictability. There are no deductibles or maximums either.
Afora representatives meet with every practice that applies to become part of its network for its strengths and weaknesses, examining interactions with patients, the cleanliness of its environment, and the quality of its staff. The company also cross-references each referral with third-party rating systems such as ZocDoc and Yelp. Member feedback plays a role in maintaining the network as well.
“We have taken time to carefully assess and assemble our network of experienced dentists,” said Rappaport. “Most importantly, all providers within our network are dentists I would be comfortable sending my own family to.”
For more information, call (929) 399-5289 or visit aforacare.com.
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