Sun Life and MetLife have announced a shared network agreement that affects how dental practices may be paid when contracted with one carrier but not the other. This agreement has been confirmed as reciprocal, meaning it can apply in both directions depending on existing contracts.
This page explains how the Sun Life–MetLife agreement works, when action is required, and how practices can prevent unwanted fee downgrades.
What the Sun Life–MetLife Agreement Does
This shared network agreement allows:
MetLife to be paid under Sun Life (DHA) fees, and
Sun Life to be paid under MetLife fees,
depending on which direct contracts a practice holds.
Direct contracts, when present, typically override shared network agreements.
Practices With Direct Contracts With Both Carriers
If a practice has direct contracts with both Sun Life and MetLife, no action is required.
Each carrier will continue paying under its respective fee schedule, and the shared network agreement does not apply.
Direct Contract With Sun Life Only
If the practice has a direct contract with Sun Life and is out of network with MetLife:
If the practice does not mind MetLife being picked up under Sun Life fees
No action is required.
If the practice does not want MetLife picked up under Sun Life fees
The practice must opt out of the agreement with Sun Life before the stated deadline.
Opt-outs prevent MetLife from paying under Sun Life’s fee schedule and do not affect the existing Sun Life contract.
Direct Contract With MetLife Only
If the practice has a direct contract with MetLife and is out of network with Sun Life, the agreement applies in reverse:
If the practice does not mind Sun Life being picked up under MetLife fees
No action is required.
If the practice does not want Sun Life picked up under MetLife fees
The practice must opt out through the MetLife provider portal.
MetLife offers both agreement-specific opt-outs and broader opt-outs covering all shared network agreements.
Practices Using Shared Network Paths Already
If Sun Life or MetLife is already being received through another shared network agreement, practices should:
Compare current fees to the fees under the new agreement
Opt out if the new agreement would result in lower reimbursement
Carriers may choose the lowest-paying available path unless an opt-out is in place.
Important Timing and Scope Notes
The Sun Life side of the agreement begins in October 2025
The MetLife reciprocal side begins November 17, 2025
Some opt-outs apply to all current and future locations associated with the practice
Practices should confirm how opt-outs affect multi-location or future expansion plans.
Summary
The Sun Life–MetLife shared network agreement can alter reimbursement depending on existing contracts and fee schedules. Practices should evaluate current participation carefully and submit opt-outs when necessary to avoid unintended downgrades or network changes.
