QUESTION PERIOD — Health
Canadian Dental Care Plan
May 2, 2024
Senator Gold, I would like to raise this important issue and concern once again. As you know, the Canadian Dental Care Plan started rolling out and now offers dental coverage to 1.7 million Canadian seniors over the age of 70. That is great news.
My question is on the rollout of the program itself and the ability for the government to quickly react, remain agile and adjust in order to ensure its success. Can you assure us that the government is closely monitoring the rollout of the program and collecting the necessary data regarding planned enrolment and utilization so the dental plan can be responsive to the evolving needs of Canadian patients?
The answer is yes. I want to thank you, senator, for highlighting this important program.
Access to health care should not be a function of Canadians’ ability to pay, and the Canadian Dental Care Plan will help ease the financial barriers to that care for up to 9 million Canadians.
My understanding is that the government has had numerous constructive conversations with the various dental associations across this country. This has led to the government making changes to the program in response to their input and their requests. I am also advised that the government will continue to have these conversations as the program rolls out.
Thank you, Senator Gold.
What is the government doing from a communications perspective to further encourage dentists, denturists and hygienists to enrol in the program? It was reported yesterday that many dentists are reluctant to register for the program because it is overly complex and there is too much paperwork. According to a CBC article, only 16% of oral health care providers have signed up. Many Canadian patients will likely struggle to find eligible oral care providers.
The government hopes and expects that increasing numbers will sign up over time. The government is, indeed, making it easier for oral health providers to participate in this program. As of July 8, every single oral health care provider will be able to care for patients either by signing up officially or by submitting claims individually, making it easier for dentists to participate. Again, this is in response to the ongoing conversations with the dental associations.
