The Manitoba Dental Association has expressed approval for the federal government’s decision to amend Canada’s national dental plan, previously criticized for its restrictive nature.
Under the new provisions announced by the Liberals on Monday, dental professionals such as dentists, dental hygienists, denturists, and dental specialists will no longer be required to register for the Canadian Dental Care Plan before treating patients. Instead, the plan will operate on a claim-by-claim basis, allowing providers to directly bill the insurance company.
Daron Baxter, president of the Manitoba Dental Association, praised this approach, noting it aligns more closely with current insurance claim procedures used by oral health-care providers.
“This plan presents a historic opportunity to expand access to dental care for patients who were previously uninsured.
However, it’s crucial that the foundational design remains sustainable in the long term,” Baxter remarked in a phone interview.
While Baxter acknowledged the positive direction of the changes, concerns were raised about administrative tools provided by Sun Life Financial, which are currently accessible only to registered providers. Baxter emphasized ongoing discussions regarding the accessibility of these tools to all dental professionals, regardless of their registration status with the government.
Federal Minister of Small Business Rechie Valdez, who announced the amendments during a visit to Winnipeg, highlighted the collaborative process with dental associations and industry leaders that informed these changes.
“We listened to feedback from stakeholders, which allowed us to implement adjustments aimed at enhancing community support through increased provider participation,” Valdez stated.
The initial requirement for providers to register under the $13-billion plan had drawn criticism from dental associations nationwide, citing potential disruptions for patients whose dentists had not enrolled.
Since its launch in December, the plan initially targeted seniors aged 87 and older, gradually expanding to include seniors aged 65 and older, disabled adults, and children under 18. By 2025, the plan aims to encompass all Canadian residents without dental benefits and with household incomes below $90,000 annually, potentially benefiting an estimated nine million Canadians.
Minister of Health Mark Holland underscored that the dental plan is not fully subsidized, indicating patients may be responsible for a portion of the costs based on their net income and the services received. Reimbursement limits have been established for various services, including cleanings, fillings, X-rays, and root canals.
“We’re working with Health Canada to determine fair coverage levels based on what’s feasible within our budget,” Holland explained during remarks in Nova Scotia.
Sun Life Financial has been appointed to process all claims under the plan, with a commitment to reducing reimbursement turnaround times from 48 to 24 hours, ensuring efficient service delivery.