Program increases flexibility in choosing dentists

July 10, 2006
"Monthly Switch" members of Guardian Life Insurance can change between a PPO and a Pre-paid plan monthly.

NEW YORK--The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America has announced the introduction of its new Monthly Switch option for its dental plans in the New York market.

Employees in New York now have the ability to select the lower out-of-pocket costs of the Pre-paid plan, but can switch to the PPO plan if they desire more flexibility in choosing a dentist.

While traditional dual choice plans allow only annual election changes, Guardian's new plan enables employees to switch between a PPO and a Pre-paid plan every month. The New York launch marks the expansion of Guardian's Monthly Switch program.

The new Monthly Switch option makes it possible for employers to provide their workforce with added control over dental insurance choices.

Other highlights of the product include:

* Members can switch plans by phone, making the process quick and simple;

* The costs of both options are identical, making billing administration for planholders seamless;

* Members' plan selection applies to the whole family.

"As medical costs continue to rise, employers should be able to provide their employees with multiple options for affordable benefits," said John Foley, Vice President, Guardian, Group Dental Insurance. "The Monthly Switch option is part of an overall strategy to develop more flexible and affordable choices to meet the needs of consumers."

For more information and to confirm availability of these plans, please contact your local Guardian group representative or log on to www.guardianlife.com to find a representative near you.