Guardian and Pelago launch new partnership

Guardian Life  announced a new partnership with Pelago, a digital clinic partner to US businesses and health plans for substance use management.

For Guardian members with workplace-sponsored dental insurance, Pelago will guide and support individuals through a “personalized and confidential” tobacco cessation program leveraging digital solutions and human coaching.

The new offering will be available in July for new dental plans.

“Choosing to reduce or eliminate the use of tobacco can be a life altering decision. But, the road to quitting can be difficult. Whether it is our member, their children, or another covered family member leveraging the cessation program, Pelago’s services will help us be a better resource to individuals as they make daily well-being and lifestyle changes in pursuit of a tobacco-free life.” – Jill Purcell, Head of Dental and Vision Product and Network Management at Guardian.

“While overall tobacco usage rates have declined, usage remains stubbornly high among workers in certain industries. With many employees getting dental benefits through their workplace, employers have an outsized opportunity to influence cessation efforts, employee well-being, and cost savings. Especially for small and mid-size businesses who might otherwise not be able to afford a stand-alone program, we’re excited to partner with Guardian to offer effective substance use management through our tobacco cessation support and include it as part of workplace-sponsored dental benefits.” – Pelago CEO and Co-Founder, Yusuf Sherwani, M.D.