QUEEN’S PARK – Perth-Wellington MPP Randy Pettapiece is touting the Ontario government’s new dental care program for low-income seniors.
“This new dental care program will help improve the health of seniors across Perth-Wellington,” Pettapiece stated in a press release. “Oral health is extremely important as we age. Our government is working to ensure eligible seniors have access to these services.”
The provincial government is spending approximately $90 million annually for the new Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP). It will provide free routine dental care for eligible low-income seniors across the province. In doing so, the government expects to reduce the number of dental-related emergency department visits, helping to end hallway health care.
“With this program, we are making sure Ontario’s low-income seniors can age with dignity and enjoy the quality of life they deserve,” said Premier Doug Ford. “This is another concrete way our government is delivering on our commitment to end hallway health care and cut hospital wait times.”
“By providing seniors with access to quality dental care and keeping them out of hospitals, this new program is a key part of our plan to end hallway health care,” said Minister of Health Christine Elliott. “Ontario is building a connected system of care that supports all Ontarians throughout their health care journey.”
“I know many constituents have been inquiring with my office about this program, since we announced it in budget 2019,” said Pettapiece. “I am glad to see it is finally launching.”
Ontarians aged 65 and over with an income of $19,300 or less, or couples with a combined annual income of $32,300 or less, who do not have dental benefits, will qualify for the Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program.
The government estimates 100,000 low-income seniors will benefit annually from this program once fully implemented. The new dental care program will be available through public health units, including some mobile dental clinics.
Eligible seniors can apply to the program online at ontario.ca/SeniorsDental, or by picking up an application form at a public health unit.
