Federal Health Minister Mark Holland says he has seen a sharp increase in the number of dentists agreeing to provide care under the new dental care program.
The federal government began accepting applications for seniors enrolled in the program in May. It has since expanded eligibility to qualifying children and people receiving a disability tax credit.
But even though some 2.3 million patients quickly signed up, it was harder to convince dentists to provide care.
As of last month, approximately 11,500 dentists, hygienists and denturists were registered to provide care under the program, representing less than 50 per cent of dental professionals in Canada.
Associations reassured
Dentists appeared more reluctant to enroll than other providers, as dental associations across the country expressed concerns about the program’s design and the administrative burden placed on dentists.
Minister Holland says there are now 16,612 participating dentists, representing approximately 75 per cent of all dentists and dental specialists in Canada.
He said the increase is likely due to a change last month that allowed providers to participate on a claim-by-claim basis rather than registering in advance.
The program was born out of an agreement between the Liberal Party and the New Democratic Party (NDP) to prevent a snap election. Under the deal, the NDP agreed to support the Liberals on key votes in the House of Commons in exchange for progress on their key priorities.
The goal of both parties is to make coverage available to anyone uninsured with a household income below $90,000, with full enrollment eligibility expected in 2025.
Holland said there are some areas of the country where provider participation is lagging, including Alberta and New Brunswick. The challenge is particularly acute in rural areas, which are already underserved, he said.
For the program to work, the government will not only need all existing dental providers to be willing to sign up, it will also need new professionals to join the ranks.
In fact, by the end of next year, Ottawa estimates that about nine million patients will be eligible for the program.