Capitation in dentistry: original concepts and current reality

Modern dental capitation was conceived as being based on staff model group practice, receiving regular periodic payments to provide comprehensive care with few exclusions, limitations and copayments, to a given population. High utilization, completion and recall rates were expected. Examples are presented. The dominant form of capitation has become a network of solo and small group practices, usually with a for-profit intermediary. Premiums are low and administrative costs are high. There are many exclusions and limitations. Low utilization and under-treatment are endemic. Specific examples are presented. The reasons for this development include competition among dentists concerned about busyness, and predominance of cost control concerns over quality concerns on the part of purchasers.