Call for National Oral Health Scheme

The Australian Dental Association (ADA) is calling for the introduction of an oral health scheme focused on disadvantaged older Australians.
In its 2015-16 Federal Pre-budget submission the ADA is proposing that the Age Pensioners Dental Benefits Scheme (APDBS) be modelled on the Child Dental Benefits Scheme and target the financially challenged sector of the aged population. The draft National Oral Health Plan 2015 - 24 cites more than 50 per cent of Australians over 65 years old have gum disease of periodontitis and that residents in aged care facilities are particularly at risk of poor oral health.
In its update to members ADA says: "TheAPDBS will improve oral health outcomes for the aged and through its preventative and early detection focus, provide general health benefits by lessening the burden of chronic heart disease, diabetes and other diseases in an ageing population. "These will create significant general health budget savings in the long term.
"The introduction of the APDBS will create not only easier access for pensioners to dental care but also provide some valuable assistance to to carers.
The ADA Pre-Budget Submission is available here.