ADAVB has welcomed the Labor Government’s updated commitment to structural, ongoing investment in dental care; expanded regional reach and regional relocation support.
Opening free dental care to all Victorians is a significant and untested model but ADAVC warns that expanding access must not further lengthen already long waiting times for people already in the system, reduce the number of dentists in areas of greatest need, or result in publicly eligible and underserved populations paying fees while others receive care for free. ADAVB stands ready to work with government to ensure public investment delivers quality care for the Victorians who need it most.
“The test for every commitment is whether it reaches the people with the greatest need first, and whether there is a realistic and sustainable plan to staff it,” ADAVB president Dr Carolyn Ng said.
“ADAVB welcomes clarity on how pledges will meet the priorities for a fair oral health system before election day.”
ADAVB’s priorities for a fair oral health system are to reduce the cost of providing care, support the public sector workforce, reduce public dental waiting times and strengthen prevention.
