Key Findings From Members
The Association recently conducted a comprehensive dental plan survey to better understand the experiences, concerns, and priorities of retirees and active public employees regarding their dental coverage. We were very encouraged by the strong response, with more than 1,300 individuals participating in the survey from communities across Massachusetts and from retirees living out of state.
The survey examined several areas related to dental coverage, including how members access their plans, overall satisfaction with coverage, the features members value most, and the challenges many continue to face when seeking dental care. Respondents represented a broad cross-section of retirees and employees covered through both the state’s Group Insurance Commission (GIC) and local or municipal retiree plans.
Of the 1,345 individuals who responded to the survey question regarding coverage, a significant majority indicated that they currently participate in a retiree dental plan. Additionally, among the 1,131 respondents who answered the residency question, most reported living in Massachusetts, while others reported residing in neighboring states such as New Hampshire, Maine, Rhode Island, and Vermont, as well as retirement destinations including Florida.
The survey also highlighted the diversity of coverage options utilized by members. Among respondents, 1,056 individuals identified whether they receive dental coverage through the GIC or a local or municipal plan. Of the 951 respondents enrolled through the GIC, participants identified themselves as state retirees, local or municipal retirees, or active employees. Members with local or municipal coverage reported participation in a variety of plans and carriers, including Delta Dental, Altus, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Cigna, MetLife, and several other providers.
More than 1,075 respondents shared whether they were enrolled in an individual or family dental plan, demonstrating broad participation across different household coverage types. Overall, responses indicated that many retirees and employees believe their dental coverage generally meets their needs. Among the 1,072 respondents who answered the satisfaction question, many reported positive experiences with their plans over the past 12 months.
When asked what they valued most about their coverage, respondents most frequently cited affordable premium rates, broad provider networks, manageable out-of-pocket costs, customer service, and the ability to maintain access to trusted dental providers. These findings suggest that stability, affordability, and provider access remain critically important to retirees and public employees.
At the same time, the survey highlighted several ongoing concerns that continue to impact members. Among the 1,064 respondents who identified challenges with their dental plans, the most common concerns included rising out-of-pocket expenses, annual maximum benefit limits that many felt no longer reflect the true cost of dental care, and difficulties accessing providers who participate in their plans. Respondents also expressed concerns regarding reimbursement rates paid to dentists and the growing challenge of finding providers willing to accept certain plans.
The survey further underscored the importance of dental coverage as a key component of retirement security and overall health.
For many retirees living on fixed incomes, affordable access to preventive and restorative dental care remains essential to maintaining both health and financial stability.
Wrapping up the survey and its findings, our Healthcare and Retirement Advocacy Director Nancy McGovern had the following to say: “We appreciate everyone who took the time to participate and share their experiences. The information gathered through this survey provides valuable insight that will help guide our ongoing advocacy efforts and future discussions surrounding retiree dental benefits, affordability, and access to care.
“As health care and benefit costs continue to evolve, ensuring that retirees and public employees maintain meaningful and affordable dental coverage will remain an important priority for the Association.”