The Dental Referral Program (DRP) is a partnership between Champaign County Health Care Consumers (CCHCC) and area dentists to provide discounted dental care to adults with no dental coverage. The first appointment to get established with a dentist is $15, and includes a comprehensive exam and x-rays. After the first appointment, Dental Referral Program members receive 20, 40, or 60 percent off of the dentist’s regular fees, depending on their income, and can receive services for as long as they fit the income and eligibility guidelines.

If you believe that you are eligible and want to enroll in the Dental Referral Program, please call (217) 352-6533.

Eligibility and Enrollment

The Dental Referral Program is available to all adults who are over the age of eighteen, living in households with incomes at or below 200% of the poverty line, and are not covered by private dental insurance. Medicaid recipients that are 19 or older are eligible.

To Enroll in the Program, Individuals Must:

1. Call (217) 352-6533 to make an appointment to enroll in the Program.
2. Attend an eligibility screening and application appointment at the CCHCC office.
3. Provide documentation of all household income (check stubs, tax form, SSI letter, etc.).

During the screening and application appointment, a CCHCC advocate will assist applicants in completing the DRP application, selecting a dentists’ office, and scheduling an initial dental appointment. Most often, when DRP applicants leave the eligibility screening and application appointment, they know the date of their initial dental appointment and have directions to the dentist’s office.

What if I have an emergency or am in pain?

Due to the overwhelming number of applicants in a state of dental crisis, the Dental Referral Program is not able to provide emergency appointments. However, most dental emergencies are due to infections, or abscesses.  Abscesses cause extreme pain and usually swelling and/or redness. If you have swelling or pain, you might have an infection, and it is a good idea to see a medical doctor as soon as possible. An infection is a very real medical problem that must be addressed immediately. To get more information about what to do if you are experiencing a dental emergency, click here.

Provisions of the Dental Referral Program

New clients pay $15 for an initial appointment with a participating dentist. This appointment covers an oral exam and x-rays. The dentist and the client will arrange for additional treatment,with payment based on a sliding fee scale. You will receive one of three discount levels: 20%, 40%, or 60% off the dentist’s usual charges. The discount level is determined by the your household size and income. If your DRP dentist refers you to a dental specialist (i.e., oral surgeon, orthodontist), the DRP discount does not apply to these dental services. If you have more questions about what specific services the discount applies to, do not hesitate to ask the Dental Advocate during your screening appointment.

Payment is expected on the date of service, unless the patient and dentist agree to an alternative plan in advance.

Missed Appointments

Due to the significant need for the Dental Referral Program’s services, missed dental appointments cannot be tolerated.  Patients must call the dentist office 24 hours in advance to cancel an appointment.

Likewise, clients must call (217) 352-6533 at least 24 hours in advance if not able to make the scheduled appointment at the CCHCC office.

2016 Income Eligibility Guidelines for Sliding Scale Discount

Download this handout as a PDF here.
Download this handout as a PDF in Spanish here.