Sarah Oliver
A $27 million boost to dental care in Victoria will begin this month, with the package providing more check-ups and treatments until June.
This funding will help public dental providers catch up and meet increased demand for dental services, target waiting lists and provide immediate access to public dental services and treatment for Victorians who have delayed or deferred treatment during the pandemic.
The boost is in addition to the state government’s Smile Squad program which will provide free dental care for students at all government primary and secondary schools, and is rolling out across Victoria now.
In a statement, the state government said there is more to do and that is calling on the Commonwealth to properly fund dental services.
Health Minister Martin Foley said good dental health is critical for good overall health.
“We know that a lot of Victorians delayed health care throughout the pandemic – including dental check-ups and treatment – this will help dentists treat more than 40,000 Victorians and get them off the waiting list,” he said.
“But we know there is more to do, which is why it is critical that the Commonwealth Government reverses their 30 per cent funding reduction in public dental services and commits to a long-term funding arrangement.”
