The Future of Dental Networks

The Future of Dental Networks

Wednesday, September 30
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM (ET)

Dental networks are evolving in response to changing provider expectations, market dynamics, technological innovation, and increasing demands for access and efficiency. This panel will bring together leaders from across the dental benefits ecosystem to explore the forces shaping the future of dental networks and what those changes may mean for providers, payers, and patients. Panelists will discuss key issues influencing network development, including provider participation, administrative complexity, reimbursement pressures, workforce challenges, and emerging technologies. The conversation will examine how stakeholders are adapting to a rapidly changing environment while balancing access, affordability, quality, and operational effectiveness. Attendees will gain insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the industry today, as well as strategies for strengthening collaboration, improving transparency, enhancing the provider experience, and supporting sustainable network growth in the years ahead.

Jeremy Hedrick

Chief Operating Officer

Careington International

Jeremy Hedrick serves as Chief Operating Officer for Careington International Corporation and its affiliate companies, including Careington Benefit Solutions, DialCare, and Munroe Sutton. Since 2001, Jeremy has contributed to the development, strategic growth, and overall direction of the Careington companies. During his tenure, he has held senior leadership roles within DialCare, including network development, customer support, compliance, fulfillment, product development, and claims. As COO, Jeremy directs and manages the daily business operations across the Careington companies and brands while maintaining the overall leadership, growth, and initiatives of DialCare, Careington’s telehealth affiliate company. 

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Jeremy Jonckheere

Vice President Strategic Payor Partnerships

PDS Health

Jeremy Jonckheere’s work at PDS Health focuses on ways to grow new, profitable revenue and spans strategic partnerships, medical integration, insurance markets and enterprise strategy.  Prior to his time with PDS, Jeremy held several positions at DaVita HealthCare Partners engaged on strategy, operations and government affairs.  He also worked at BMO’s Investment Bank on the Diversified Industries division team. Jeremy holds an MBA in Finance, Marketing and Biotechnology from Northwestern University, Kellogg School of Management and an HBA from the University of Western Ontario, Richard Ivey School of Business. A former professional volleyball player and member of Canada’s National Team, Jeremy spends his time with his wife and son traveling central America and exploring Florida’s winter activities. 

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Allan Corkum 

Allan Corkum is Vice President of Dental and Vision Networks at UnitedHealthcare. He directs the growth, affordability and operations agenda for the commercial and government dental networks at UnitedHealthcare, including the largest Medicare Advantage network in the country. Prior to his current role, Allan led actuarial services for UnitedHealthcare Dental and UnitedHealthcare Vision products and was accountable for the pricing, product development and network development actuarial functions for UnitedHealthcare government, private label and commercial businesses. His experience working in the dental industry spans more than 18 years. From 2017 to 2018, he served as the vice-chair of the National Association of Dental Plans (NADP) Research Commission. In 2018, he became chair and continues to hold that position today. The commission works to improve and grow the quality and value of the industry research that NADP conducts. Allan has also been a member of the Strategic Planning Task Force since 2020. As a volunteer with NADP, he’s received numerous accolades. His contributions include service on the FAIR Health and Actuary Member Interest Groups and the Sales Survey Task Force. In 2015, the Research Commission presented the Star Award to Allan for providing consistent thought leadership in the design and content of NADP’s statistical surveys. In 2021, Allan received the Don Mayes Leadership Award, recognizing outstanding volunteer leadership spanning three or more years. Allan is a fellow of the Society of Actuaries, a member of the American Academy of Actuaries and holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in actuarial science from the University of Hartford. He and his wife, Amy, live in south Florida with their son and daughter.

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Chris Falk (Moderator)

Chris Falk is Vice President of Network Development at Careington International Corporation, where he oversees strategies and operations that support the growth, performance, and effectiveness of provider networks. Having started his career at Careington as a Network Recruiter, Chris has advanced through multiple leadership roles, gaining extensive experience across all facets of network development and provider management. His expertise includes provider recruitment, enrollment, credentialing, network analysis, regulatory compliance, and operational improvement. Chris has extensive knowledge of NCQA, URAC, CMS, and state-level requirements governing network management and credentialing, helping organizations maintain high standards while supporting network growth. Throughout his career, Chris has focused on building strong provider relationships, improving processes, and developing high-performing teams. He is recognized for his practical approach to network strategy and his commitment to strengthening the provider experience while supporting organizational objectives.

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