Persons who cannot afford their own medical treatments, including dental treatments, do have some choices and options for dental subsidies in the country of Australia. Children and teens especially are covered under these plans so that they can receive regular checkups and other such dental care. Not everyone is eligible for such subsidies, but knowing if they apply to you can help you to better understand your options for dental care. This way, you can get proper oral healthcare treatment and know what to expect by way of costs. Note a few factors when it comes to dental subsidies for oral healthcare in Australia.
Requirements
Typically a person needs to hold a current health card or pensioner participation card, meaning that they are signed up for Medicare or another government subsidy program, to be eligible for dental subsidies. This health card usually includes them and any minor children they may have. You cannot simply apply for a dental subsidy program apart from the medical health card so that you get dental care paid for without being eligible for Medicare. If you're unsure if your Medicare card covers a dental subsidy, or if it doesn't list your children on the card or your benefits plan, call your local Medicare office and ask about this.
Participation
Public and private dental health clinics may participate in the plan, but you must choose a dental healthcare provider who does participate. Private clinicians may choose whether or not they participate in the plan and accept subsidized payments for services, so be sure you call and ask about this before making your appointment. This will ensure that your services are paid for and you're not surprised with out-of-pocket expenses.
Waiting List
It's not unusual to see that there is a waiting list for preventative dental care and maintenance, so you need to ensure that you get on that waiting list for treatment as soon as possible. Depending on your area, it may take some time before you are called for an appointment for your dental care, so don't wait to sign up for services.
State Benefits
It's also important to realize that subsidized dental benefits will vary by state in Australia. If you're not sure of the benefits for which you're eligible, you need to check with your dentist to understand the types of treatments, cleanings, exams, and the like that apply to you. Your dentist at a public or private clinic will know what services are subsidized in your area for you and your children; rather than assuming that all services are covered, always ask about country subsidy dental concerns first so you know what's applicable in your area.
Share6 January 2016
As a retired dentist, I work with charities which visit developing countries and educate children about dental care. It gives me great satisfaction to revisit these communities and see how proud the children are of their efforts. I am acutely aware that good dental hygiene can help prevent a range of serious conditions when these children become older. I started this blog because it greatly distresses me that many people in Australia do not seem to care for their teeth as much as children in these poor communities. This is happening despite ready access to items like toothbrushes and toothpaste which are luxuries in the places I visit. It is my hope that this blog encourages you not to take dental health for granted. My greatest wish is that you can be as inspired as the children I see in my charity work. Please read on and enjoy.
