Beam Dental: Unveiling the Innovative Benefits of Beam Insurance
As an independent insurance agent at Blake Insurance Group, I am committed to helping businesses in Arizona, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Ohio, Texas, and Virginia provide top-tier employee benefits that attract and retain exceptional talent. One of the standout providers in the ancillary benefits market is Beam Benefits.
Beam Benefits offers a comprehensive suite of dental, vision, life, disability, and supplemental health insurance products designed to meet the diverse needs of modern workforces. With innovative digital tools, wellness incentives, and a focus on preventive care, Beam Benefits enhances employee well-being and delivers significant value to employers.
In this article, we will explore Beam Benefits’ various offerings and how they can be tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses across these states.
Beam Dental Benefits
Comprehensive Coverage
Beam Dental offers extensive dental plans prioritizing preventive care, ensuring members maintain optimal oral health. The plans cover up to two annual cleanings and check-ups, essential for preventing dental issues before they become serious.
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In addition to cleanings, Beam’s coverage includes routine exams, basic X-rays, and preventive treatments like sealants and fluoride treatments for children up to age 16. Most preventive care services are covered at 100%, meaning members typically pay $0 out-of-pocket for these essential services. This comprehensive approach ensures that members receive the necessary care to keep their smiles healthy and avoid costly dental problems down the line.
Beam Perks Program
One of the unique features of Beam Dental is the Beam Perks program, which incentivizes good oral hygiene habits. Members receive a smart Beam Brush, which syncs with the Beam App to track brushing habits. Every time a member brushes for two minutes, they earn points that can be redeemed for dental products like brush heads, floss, and toothpaste, as well as gift cards from popular brands such as Starbucks and Amazon. This program not only encourages consistent brushing but also rewards members for maintaining their oral health, making dental care more engaging and beneficial.
Large Network
Beam Dental boasts a vast network of over 500,000 dental access points nationwide, ensuring that members have ample options for receiving care. Members can easily find in-network providers using the “Find a Dentist” tool available on the Beam Benefits website and app. Staying in-network can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs due to pre-negotiated rates with providers. For example, a dental crown that costs $1,400 out-of-network might only cost $800 in-network before Beam’s coverage is applied, resulting in substantial savings for members. This extensive network ensures that members can access high-quality dental care conveniently and affordably.
Beam Vision Benefits
Partnership with VSP Vision Care
Beam Vision plans are designed in partnership with VSP Vision Care, the largest not-for-profit vision benefits company in the United States. This partnership ensures that Beam Vision members can access a nationwide comprehensive network of over 121,000 vision providers. This makes it convenient for members to find in-network eye care professionals near home or work. VSP Vision Care is renowned for its high-quality service and extensive provider network, which includes optometrists and ophthalmologists who offer a wide range of eye care services.
Comprehensive Coverage
Beam Vision plans cover essential vision care services, including annual eye exams, lenses, and frames. Eye exams and lenses are covered every 12 months, while frames are covered every 12 or 24 months, depending on the chosen plan. This regular coverage ensures members can maintain optimal eye health and update their eyewear as needed. For example, a member visiting an in-network optometrist for an eye exam typically pays a low copay, with the remaining cost covered by the Beam plan.
Bundled Savings
One significant advantage of Beam Vision is the ability to bundle vision benefits with other Beam products, such as dental, life, and disability insurance. Bundling these benefits can lead to substantial savings for employers and employees alike. By offering a comprehensive benefits package, employers can provide more value to their employees while potentially reducing overall costs. This integrated approach simplifies benefits management and enhances the overall employee experience.
Examples of Coverage
To illustrate the benefits of Beam Vision, consider the following scenarios:
* **Annual Eye Exam**: A member named Chris visits an in-network optometrist for an eye exam costing $100. With a Beam Vision plan, Chris only pays a $10 copay, and the plan covers the remaining $90.
* **Buying New Frames**: Another member, Alex, finds a pair of frames costing $210. Beam Vision covers $200 for in-network frames, and Alex receives an additional 20% discount on the remaining balance, reducing their out-of-pocket cost to just $8.
Extensive Network
Beam Vision members benefit from the extensive VSP network, which includes over 121,000 access points across the U.S. This vast network ensures that members can easily find and access high-quality vision care providers, reducing the hassle and cost associated with out-of-network services. The VSP “Find a Provider” tool makes it simple for members to locate in-network eye doctors, ensuring they receive the best care at the lowest possible cost.
Beam Group Term Life Plans
Beam Life Insurance offers robust group-term life plans that provide essential financial support to beneficiaries in the unfortunate event of a member’s death. These plans are designed to cover a wide range of financial needs, ensuring that the member’s loved ones are protected from financial hardship. The benefits of these plans include:
* **Final Costs**: Coverage can help pay for funeral and burial expenses, which can be a significant financial burden.
* **Daily Financial Obligations**: The lump-sum payout can be used to cover everyday expenses such as mortgage payments, utility bills, and groceries, helping to maintain the family’s standard of living.
* **Child’s Education**: Funds can be allocated towards a child’s education, ensuring that their future is secure even without the primary breadwinner.
For example, a Beam member named Jamie, diagnosed with a terminal illness, is covered by an employer-paid life plan of $100,000. Jamie’s family will receive this lump sum upon Jamie’s passing, providing financial security during a difficult time. Additionally, Jamie can access a portion of the benefit early through the accelerated death benefit to cover immediate costs related to the illness, such as travel and child care.
Customizable Options
Beam Life Insurance plans are highly customizable, allowing employers to tailor coverage to meet the specific needs of their workforce. These plans can include:
* **Employer-Paid Life Coverage**: Employers can choose to cover the full cost of basic life insurance for their employees, providing a guaranteed benefit amount without any cost to the employee.
* **Voluntary Additional Life Coverage**: Employees can purchase additional life insurance coverage on top of the employer-paid amount. This voluntary coverage can include spouses and dependent children, offering broader protection for the entire family.
* **Optional AD&D Benefits**: Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage can be added to both employer-paid and voluntary plans. This benefit provides an additional payout if the member’s death or dismemberment is due to an accident.
For instance, Alex, the family’s main income earner, opts for additional voluntary life coverage to supplement the employer-paid $50,000 plan. Alex adds $200,000 of voluntary coverage, bringing the total life insurance to $250,000. This additional coverage ensures that Alex’s family is well-protected against financial uncertainties.
Flexibility and Accessibility
Beam Life Insurance plans are designed to be flexible and accessible, catering to the diverse needs of employees at different life stages. Whether a young professional like Chris opts for the basic $50,000 employer-paid plan to cover minimal debts and final costs, or a retiree like Taylor, who chooses $50,000 of voluntary coverage for peace of mind, Beam Life plans offer tailored solutions for everyone.
Beam Disability Insurance
Beam’s short-term disability (STD) insurance, powered by The Hartford, provides crucial financial support to employees who are temporarily unable to work due to a disability. This coverage starts from the first day of disability and can last up to 26 weeks, ensuring that employees have the financial resources they need during their recovery period. Key features of Beam’s short-term disability insurance include:
* **Immediate Financial Support**: Payments begin as soon as the first day of disability, helping to cover immediate expenses.
* **Coverage for Various Conditions**: This includes recovery from childbirth, surgeries, and other temporary disabilities.
* **Flexible Plan Designs**: Employers can choose from different plan options to best fit their workforce’s needs, including employer-paid and employee-choice plans.
For example, an employee named Sarah, who recently gave birth, can benefit from Beam’s STD plan by receiving a portion of her income during her maternity leave, allowing her to focus on recovery without financial stress.
Long-Term Disability
Beam’s long-term disability (LTD) insurance offers extended financial protection for employees who cannot work for a prolonged period due to a serious illness or injury. Coverage begins after a waiting period of either 90 or 180 days and continues through the duration of the disability or until the Social Security Normal Retirement Age (SSNRA). Key features include:
* **Extended Coverage**: Provides financial support for long-term disabilities, ensuring employees have income replacement for an extended period.
* **Comprehensive Plan Options**: Employers can select from various plan designs, including employer-paid and voluntary options, to best meet their employees’ needs.
* **Income Replacement**: Typically covers up to 60-70% of the employee’s salary, providing significant financial relief.
For instance, an employee named John, who suffers a severe back injury and is unable to work for an extended period, can rely on Beam’s LTD plan to receive a portion of his income. This plan helps him manage his financial obligations while focusing on recovery.
Partnership with The Hartford
Beam Benefits has partnered with The Hartford, a leader in disability insurance, to offer specialized expertise and comprehensive plan designs. This partnership ensures that Beam’s disability insurance plans are backed by The Hartford’s decades of experience and industry-leading claims management. Key benefits of this partnership include:
* **Expertise and Reliability**: The Hartford brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record in disability insurance, ensuring high-quality service and support.
* **Comprehensive Plan Designs**: The collaboration allows for the creation of tailored disability insurance plans that meet the unique needs of each employer and their workforce.
* **Value-Added Services**: Plans include additional resources such as the Ability Assist Employee Assistance Program and HealthChampion services, providing holistic support to employees.
Beam Supplemental Health Benefits
Accident Insurance
Beam’s accident insurance provides financial support for non-occupational accidental injuries, helping to cover high deductibles, copays, and other medical costs. This insurance is designed to ease the financial burden of unexpected accidents by offering a straightforward, lump-sum payout. Key features include:
* **Lump-Sum Payments**: In the event of an accidental injury, members receive a lump-sum payment that can be used to cover various expenses, including medical bills, transportation, and child care.
* **Coverage for Various Injuries**: The plan covers a wide range of accidental injuries, from minor incidents requiring urgent care to more severe injuries necessitating surgery and hospitalization.
For example, a Beam member named Nick has an accident plan that pays up to $1,500 per year. When Nick’s son is injured during a soccer match and incurs a $1,400 medical bill, Beam’s accident insurance covers the entire amount, significantly reducing Nick’s family’s out-of-pocket expenses.
Critical Illness Insurance
Beam’s critical illness insurance provides a lump-sum benefit paid directly to the member upon diagnosis of a serious illness. This financial support can be used for both medical and non-medical expenses, offering significant relief during challenging times. Key features include:
* **Lump-Sum Cash Payments**: Members receive a lump-sum payment upon diagnosis of a covered critical illness, such as a heart attack, stroke, or cancer.
* **No Deductible or Lifetime Maximum**: The plans feature no deductible and no lifetime maximum benefit amount, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
* **Guaranteed Issue Coverage**: Coverage is available without pre-existing condition limitations, making it accessible to a broader range of employees.
For instance, if a Beam member named Alex is diagnosed with invasive cancer, they receive a lump-sum payment that can be used to cover treatment costs, mortgage payments, groceries, and other expenses, allowing Alex and their family to focus on recovery rather than financial stress.
Hospital Indemnity Insurance
Beam’s hospital indemnity insurance provides financial assistance for unexpected hospital stays, covering deductibles, copays, travel, child care, and other costs. This insurance is designed to offset the high costs associated with inpatient care by offering per diem payments. Key features include:
* **Per Diem Payments**: Members receive a set amount per day for each day they are hospitalized, which can be used to cover various expenses.
* **Comprehensive Coverage**: The plan covers hospital stays due to accidents, illnesses, and other medical conditions, providing broad financial protection.
For example, a Beam member named Jo, who has both accident and hospital indemnity coverage, is involved in a car accident and requires surgery and a six-day hospital stay. Jo receives a total payout of $7,000 from Beam’s supplemental health benefits, which helps cover care costs, transportation, and child care during recovery.
Beam Digital Tools and Support
Self-Service Tools
Beam Benefits offers a suite of self-service tools designed to provide instant access to information and streamline the benefits management process. These tools include:
* **Digital Quoting**: Beam’s sophisticated digital quoting tool allows brokers and employers to quickly obtain customized and competitive rates. This tool simplifies comparing different plan options and selecting the best fit for the organization.
* **Online Access**: Members can access their insurance cards, plan details, and claims status through the Beam App, providing 24/7 availability to essential information.
* **Find a Provider Tool**: This online tool helps members locate in-network providers, ensuring they receive care at the lowest possible cost.
For example, an HR manager at a mid-sized company can use Beam’s digital quoting tool to generate a quote for dental and vision benefits in just a few minutes, allowing for a more efficient decision-making process.
Rapid Implementation
Beam Benefits prides itself on its rapid implementation process, ensuring that groups are fully set up and enrolled within five business days. This efficient process is supported by a dedicated team that provides ongoing support from quoting through implementation and beyond. Key features include:
* **Streamlined Onboarding**: The digital implementation tool simplifies the onboarding process, reducing the time and effort required to get new groups up and running.
* **Dedicated Support Team**: Beam’s knowledgeable support team is available to assist with any questions or issues during the implementation process, ensuring a smooth transition for employers and employees.
For instance, a small business owner in Texas can rely on Beam’s rapid implementation process to quickly set up a new dental benefits plan for their employees, minimizing downtime and ensuring continuous coverage.
Member Resources
Beam Benefits provides comprehensive resources to help members maximize their benefits. These resources enhance the member experience and promote positive wellness habits. Key features include:
* **Beam App**: The Beam App offers easy access to benefits information, including insurance cards, plan details, and claims status. It also syncs with the Beam Brush to track brushing habits and earn rewards through the Beam Perks program.
* **Beam Perks Program**: Members can earn points for maintaining good brushing habits, which can be redeemed for dental products and gift cards from popular brands. This program encourages consistent wellness behaviors and provides tangible rewards for healthy habits.
* **Educational Materials**: Beam provides a range of educational materials and resources to help members understand their benefits and make informed decisions about their care.
For example, a Beam member in Florida can use the Beam App to track their brushing habits, earn rewards through the Beam Perks program, and access their insurance information all in one place, making it easier to manage their dental health.
comparison table summarizing the key features of Beam Benefits, Unum, AXA, and Allstate Benefits
Comparison Table
| Feature | Beam Benefits | Unum | AXA | Allstate Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overview | Digital-first ancillary benefits provider with a focus on dental, vision, life, disability, and supplemental health insurance. | Leading provider of financial protection benefits, including disability, life, accident, and critical illness insurance. | Global insurance and asset management company offering health, life, and disability insurance. | Comprehensive portfolio of group supplemental and health products, including accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity insurance. |
| Digital Tools | Advanced self-service tools, digital quoting, Beam App for tracking and rewards. | Advanced digital platform for leave management and benefits planning. | Comprehensive digital solutions but less emphasis on technology compared to Beam. | Advanced technology platforms for enrollment and benefits management. |
| Implementation | Rapid implementation with dedicated support team. | Extensive support and resources for employers and employees. | Strong support but may not be as agile as Beam in implementation. | Comprehensive support and resources, focus on technology-driven solutions. |
| Product Offerings | Dental, vision, life, disability, and supplemental health benefits. | Disability, life, accident, and critical illness insurance. | Health, life, disability, and other insurance products. | Supplemental insurance products and group health benefits. |
| Wellness and Incentives | Beam Perks program rewards members for good oral hygiene habits. | Emphasis on financial protection and peace of mind. | Focus on comprehensive health and financial solutions. | Wellness and preventive care programs as part of their supplemental insurance products. |
| Network | Extensive network of over 500,000 dental access points. | Broad provider network for dental and other insurance products. | Global reach with a wide network of providers. | Large network through partnerships like Ameritas for dental insurance. |
| Customization | Highly customizable plans with options for employer-paid and voluntary coverage. | Customizable options for various insurance products. | Flexible plan designs to meet diverse needs. | Customizable group health and supplemental insurance plans. |
| Special Features | Beam Brush and Beam App integration for tracking and rewards. | Specialized support for leave management and benefits planning. | Strong financial stability and global presence. | Dental Rewards® program and coverage for LASIK, hearing exams, and hearing aids. |
FAQs
What is Beam Benefits?
Beam Benefits is a digital-first ancillary benefits provider offering dental, vision, life, disability, and supplemental health insurance. They focus on modernizing employee benefits with advanced digital tools and wellness programs.
What is the Beam Perks program?
The Beam Perks program incentivizes positive brushing habits with wellness rewards. Members earn points for healthy behaviors, which can be redeemed for dental products and gift cards from popular brands.
How do I use the Beam App?
The Beam App provides easy access to benefits information, including insurance cards, plan details, and claims status. It also syncs with the Beam Brush to track brushing habits and manage Beam Perks rewards.
What types of insurance does Beam Benefits offer?
Beam Benefits offers a comprehensive suite of insurance products, including dental, vision, life, disability, accident, hospital indemnity, and critical illness insurance.
How can I find an in-network provider?
Beam Benefits provides an online 'Find a Provider' tool that helps members locate in-network providers, ensuring they receive care at the lowest possible cost.
What is covered under Beam's dental plans?
Beam's dental plans cover preventive care, including up to two annual cleanings and check-ups, routine exams, basic x-rays, and preventive treatments like sealants and fluoride treatments for children.
How does Beam Benefits support employers?
Beam Benefits supports employers with rapid implementation, digital tools for easy plan management, and ongoing support from a dedicated team. Employers can also benefit from group discounts based on employee wellness habits.