Juneteenth Insurance Closure: Verification Services Impacted

As we observe Juneteenth today, many businesses and government offices across the country are closed in honor of the emancipation of the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, in 1865. If you’re running or working in a dental practice, please note that several major insurance and benefits verification services will be unavailable today. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Why Juneteenth Matters

Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021 and is now recognized nationwide as a day to commemorate freedom, reflect on our shared history, and celebrate African American culture. While your office may remain open for patient care, many external services will pause in observance.

2. Insurers & Verification Partners Closed Today

The following payers and third-party benefit administrators are observing the holiday and will not process verifications, eligibility checks, or authorizations on June 19:

• Humana
• Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS)
• Principal Financial
• Lincoln Financial
• Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employees Program
• Liberty Dental
• Careington
• Unum, Starmount, Always Care, Colonial Life

Because these carriers’ customer service and automated verification portals will be offline, any attempts to verify patient eligibility or benefits with them today will be delayed.

3. How Your Practice Is Affected

• No Live Representatives: Carrier call center agents will be offline today—no live assistance for verifying patient eligibility or dental benefits. You will need to rely on self-service portals or clearinghouse tools.
• Pre-authorizations & Referrals: Requests submitted today will queue until the carrier reopens, potentially delaying treatment authorizations.
• Claims Inquiries: Status inquiries or claim appeals requiring live agent support cannot be addressed until tomorrow.