Over 1,200 seniors access new dental benefits as Canada rolls out a major coverage plan, reaching 1.9 million
The federal government's new dental care plan for seniors is off to a promising start, with more than 1,200 seniors having already visited a dentist and processed their claims, as announced by the Liberals on Wednesday.
According to Canadian Press, Citizens' Services Minister Terry Beech shared details on the program's rollout, noting that the first patient was attended to at 7:08 a.m. in Newfoundland and Labrador.
With the program starting May 1, the initial million seniors who registered have now received their benefits cards, making them eligible to file claims.
Minister Beech also announced the launch of a web portal designed for seniors over 65 without insurance to apply for coverage.
He revealed at a press conference, “More than 13,000 individuals have signed up this morning, bringing the total to 1.9 million Canadians enrolled in the Canada dental care plan.”
Enrollment began last year for seniors and will extend to children under 18 and recipients of the disabilities tax credit next month. Currently, patients can access only services that do not require pre-approval and may face out-of-pocket expenses for treatments not fully covered by the government.
Health Canada issued a warning that patients should verify any amount not covered by the program that they will need to pay directly to their provider. Until July, patients are also required to visit oral health providers who are registered with the government.
Health Minister Mark Holland has indicated plans to relax the registration requirement for dentists based on feedback from dental providers. Presently, about 6,500 oral health providers, including dentists, hygienists, and denturists, are participating in the program.
Despite these advances, a survey by the Canadian Dental Association involving 4,000 dentists suggests that 61 percent are hesitant to participate under the current framework.
Procurement Minister Jean-Yves Duclos, former health minister, stated that earlier concerns from dentists have been addressed, including an adjustment that, starting this summer, will not require dentists to fully enroll in the program to treat covered patients.
However, the association's president, Joel Antel, pointed out that “significant gaps remain to adequately address the needs of patients and dentists.” He highlighted the need for more clarity regarding terms, coordination with provincial programs, and the level of preauthorized services.
The dental program, a result of a cooperative agreement between the Liberals and the New Democrats, aims to become Canada's largest benefit program, potentially covering up to nine million people without private insurance and with a family income under $90,000.
