Ottawa notes a sharp increase in dentists affiliated with the dental care program

Photo: Justin Tang The Canadian Press Minister Mark Holland, seen here at a dental clinic in Ottawa, says 16,612 dentists are now participating in the program, or about 75 per cent of all dentists and dental specialists in Canada.

The Canadian Press in Ottawa

Published at 12:45

• Canada

Federal Health Minister Mark Holland says he has seen a sharp increase in the number of dentists who have agreed 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 while some 2.3 million patients quickly signed up, convincing dentists to provide care has been more difficult.

As of last month, about 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.

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Minister Holland says there are now 16,612 participating dentists, which represents approximately 75% of all dentists and dental specialists in Canada.

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He says the increase is likely due to a change last month that allowed providers to participate on a claim-by-claim basis rather than signing up in advance.

The program was born out of a deal between the Liberal Party and the New Democratic Party (NDP) aimed at preventing 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 everyone who is uninsured and has a household income below $90,000, with full enrollment 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 ready to sign up, it will also need new professionals to join the ranks.

Indeed, by the end of next year, Ottawa estimates that about nine million patients will be eligible for the program.