EXPANSION OF DENTAL PROGRAMS

Increased Community Dental Services - $1.5 million over three years

· The faculty of dentistry, University of British Columbia, will work with health authorities, government ministries and service organizations to identify communities most in need of these services.

· In communities where access to dental treatment is limited, new sites for treatment services positions will be established.

· These new dental services locations could include a hospital, a health unit, a not-for-profit community dental clinic or a private dental office.

· Funding for the dental services positions will be $500,000 per year.

Increased Dental Fee Coverage - $36.6 million over three years

· Effective April 1, 2005, dental coverage for children in low-income families and people on income assistance is increasing from 63 per cent to 80 per cent of the dentists’ fee guide.

· The increased dental coverage represents $12.2 million in additional funding each year:

· $7.2 million for children in low-income families or families on income assistance through the Healthy Kids Program.

· $5 million for adults on income assistance.

Public Education for Parents and Caregivers - $1.8 million over three years

· To assist parents, caregivers and the general public about the causes of cavities in young children, public education materials based on preventative practices will be developed in partnership with the B.C. Dental Association.

Enhanced Community Dental Public Health Services - $3 million over three years

· Through increased community dental hygienists and dental assistants positions, health authorities will be better able to provide access to dental treatment programs including preventative measures for better dental health.

Enhanced co-ordination and technical support of dental services - $4 million over three years

· Technical expertise will be provided to support dental hygienists and dental assistants.

Specialized Treatment For Children - $300,000 over three years

· Through a partnership with the Ministry of Health Services, the Provincial Health Services Authority and B.C.Children’s Hospital, specialized treatment will be provided to children with severe genetic conditions, such as ectodermal dysplasia.

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Media contact:	Public Affairs Bureau Ministry of Health Services 250 952-1887

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