State of Delaware's Group Dental Insurance

Background

The State of Delaware, through its Department of Human Resources (DHR) and the State Employee Benefits Committee (SEBC), is seeking professional services for the administration of its Group Dental Insurance. This RFP is issued under Delaware Code and aims to provide comprehensive dental insurance coverage for state employees, retirees, and eligible dependents. The SEBC oversees all employee benefits and selects carriers or third-party administrators to manage these benefits.

Work Details

The selected vendor will provide group dental insurance services to approximately 83,000 members, including active and retired employees from the State of Delaware and participating non-state groups. The current offerings include a Dental Preferred Provider Organization (DPPO) Plan by Delta Dental and a Dental Health Maintenance Organization (DHMO) Plan by Dominion National. The new RFP seeks to evaluate a dual-option Dental PPO plan with High and Low options to replace the existing plans. Key services required include: maintaining a robust provider network in Delaware, timely claims processing, excellent customer service, electronic enrollment capabilities, member communication support, distribution of member ID cards, clinical integration focusing on health topics like opioid management, adoption of innovative technologies such as virtual dentistry, and dedicated account management for the Statewide Benefits Office.

Period of Performance

The anticipated contract start date is July 1, 2027. Proposals are due by July 13, 2026.

Place of Performance

The services will be performed primarily within the State of Delaware.

Bidder Requirements

Vendors must have at least five consecutive years of experience providing group dental insurance services. They must comply with all applicable state and federal laws and regulations. Vendors are required to submit proof of insurance prior to contract commencement with specified minimum coverage amounts. Additionally, vendors must attend a mandatory pre-proposal meeting on June 12, 2026.