An April 14, 2024, Global News article by Carolyn Kury de Castillo highlights concerns with the new Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), which starts in May and aims to improve dental care access for seniors.
You can read on for a summary of the article, or watch the news clip and read the full article here: https://globalnews.ca/news/10422833/dentists-hesitant-to-sign-up-for-federal-dental-plan-seniors-advised-to-look-at-all-options/
Dentists are hesitant about the plan due to unclear contract terms and administrative concerns. Dr. Jenny Doerksen, president of the Alberta Dental Association, voiced these concerns, highlighting the need for more clarity from the government.
Here are the key issues discussed:
• Contract Concerns: Dentists are hesitant to sign up due to vague terms and the additional administrative burden it may place on their practices.
• Patient Autonomy: Some fear that the plan may restrict patients’ ability to choose their own dentists.
Despite these concerns, the plan is already accepting applications and will expand eligibility to different age groups over time. Health Minister Mark Holland described recent discussions with dentists as productive, emphasizing the government’s commitment to refining the program and reducing participation barriers.
In response to potential shortages of participating dentists:
• Alternative Care Providers: Independent dental hygienists like Laura Woods in Calgary are stepping up to advise seniors on available care options, ensuring they know it’s not the end of the road if they can’t find a participating dentist.
Jeannette Provo, executive director for Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre, noted the economic pressure on seniors and the potential health risks if they forgo dental care due to cost. She expressed disappointment that more dentists are not signing on and called for clearer information for them.
The CDCP aims to eventually cover a quarter of Canadians, starting with the most vulnerable groups and requiring eligible individuals to not have existing dental insurance, have an annual family net income under $90,000, and meet certain residency and tax filing conditions. There is also a co-pay for those with incomes between $70,000 and $90,000. As the plan rolls out, it could significantly benefit older adults, assuming the concerns of the dental community can be addressed.
