Denver-based Qwest Communications has reportedly signed data networking and VoIP agreement worth $3.8 million with Willamette Dental, one of the largest managed dental care providers in the Northwest.

As per the deal, Willamette Dental will use Qwest’s (News - Alert) iQ Networking wide-area network (WAN) solution to connect its 69 locations and upgrade its network. In addition, Qwest will provide voice and data management services. These services, combined with implementation of iQ Networking, will enable Willamette to better manage call volumes and transfer large amounts of complex data. Also included in the deal is an upgrade of Willamette’s existing business VoIP service. The company reportedly uses VoIP to transfer calls to its call center, which handles customer relations.

“The deployment of Qwest’s next-generation technology brings a great deal of flexibility and efficiency to our business, resulting in improvements in the way our patients are served,” said Don Mason, director of information technology for Willamette Dental, in a press release. “Qwest was easy to work with throughout the deployment process, and we see the return on investment from upgrading our telecommunications infrastructure.”

“Willamette Dental is a longtime Qwest customer, and transitioning to a WAN solution will allow the company to better serve customers and improve operations,” said Tom Richards, executive vice president, Qwest business markets group. “Migrating from a frame relay network to Qwest iQ Networking service will allow Willamette to enhance many of its business needs, and Qwest is pleased to provide all of the benefits of a centralized voice and data infrastructure.”

Willamette Dental provides full-service dentistry at locations in Idaho, Oregon and Washington state.

Qwest iQ Networking consists of a full suite of global wide area networking services which enable enterprises to build and expand their wide area networking environment. Qwest claims the solution simplifies an enterprise’s complex data communications by uniting mission-critical business applications with Qwest’s OC-192 application aware networking environment. The modular nature of the solution means an enterprise can create its own converged networking environment which is tailored to meet its specific needs. The solution is backed by industry-leading service level agreements (SLAs).

For more information, visit www.qwest.com.

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Patrick Barnard is Associate Editor for TMCnet and a columnist covering the telecom industry. To see more of his articles, please visit Patrick Barnard’s columnist page.