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Access to dental care is a fundamental right, yet it remains elusive for many people in Canada. The Canadian government provides public health care coverage for medically necessary services, but dental care is not considered an essential service. As a result, many Canadians do not have access to dental coverage or insurance, leaving them vulnerable to oral health problems and financial hardship.
Lack of dental coverage in Canada ?
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The lack of dental coverage is especially problematic for students and people in precarious situations. Many students do not have access to dental coverage through their university or college, and those who do often find that the coverage is insufficient. As a result, many students are forced to delay or forgo necessary dental care, leading to more serious oral health problems down the line.
For people in precarious situations, the lack of dental coverage can be catastrophic. Without insurance, the cost of dental care can be prohibitively expensive, leaving many people with no choice but to suffer through pain and discomfort or to seek out unregulated or low-quality dental care.
The Canadian government has recognized the need for dental coverage and has taken steps to address the issue. In 2019, the federal government announced a plan to create a national dental care program, which would provide coverage for low-income families and individuals. While this is a step in the right direction, there is still much work to be done to ensure that everyone in Canada has access to affordable and comprehensive dental care.
One solution that could help improve access to dental care is to implement a universal dental care program. This would ensure that everyone in Canada has access to basic dental care, regardless of their income or employment status. This type of program would be similar to the current public health care system, which provides coverage for medically necessary services.
Another solution is to expand existing dental insurance programs to provide more comprehensive coverage. Many dental insurance programs only cover basic services, such as check-ups and cleanings, and do not cover more complex procedures, such as root canals or orthodontic treatments. By expanding coverage to include these types of procedures, more people would have access to the care they need.
At the McGill Faculty of Dentistry, students are doing their part to address the issue of access to dental care. Through their community outreach programs, they provide free dental care to people in need, including those who are homeless or living in poverty. These programs not only provide vital care to those in need but also give students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and develop their skills.
In conclusion, the lack of dental coverage and insurance is a problematic issue that affects many Canadians, particularly students and people in precarious situations. The Canadian government has taken steps to address the issue, but more needs to be done to ensure that everyone in Canada has access to affordable and comprehensive dental care.
By implementing universal dental care or expanding existing insurance programs, we can improve access to care and promote oral health for all Canadians. And we can be grateful for the hard work that students at the McGill Faculty of Dentistry are doing to make a difference in the lives of those in need.