More than 380 low-income families and individuals across a broad area of eastern Ontario, including the Quinte Region, will receive free dental care thanks to some one-time provincial funding.
Over the next few months, each of the five Community Health Centres across the area served by the Southeast Local Health Integrated Network will be able to provide 81 patients with dentures, and offer more than 300 clients greater access to specialized dental services.
CEO Paul Huris.
The $352,400 in provincial funding will include $54,300 for the Belleville Quinte West CHC and $48,000 for Gateway in Tweed.
Huris says it’s a very important service since many of the people “haven’t been able to afford dental care for some time.”
The LHIN says oral health programs are geared towards meeting the needs of those facing financial barriers and who are at high risk of severe oral health issues. This includes low income seniors, families and individuals without dental insurance.
Officials say oral health services include both preventative measures and treatment. Receiving this care is not only paramount for general oral health but is also fundamental to overall health, well-being and quality of life.
Patients do not need to be members of a CHC in order to qualify, but do need to meet eligibility criteria set by the program.
For more information you can contact your local Community Health Centre.
