The new federal dental program reimburses independent hygienists at a significantly lower rate than hygienists working in dental offices for the same cleaning services. Health Minister Mark Holland finds the reasoning behind this disparity unconvincing and says the decision was based on an existing federal program for First Nations and Inuit.
Mr. Holland is investigating the issue. The Canadian Dental Hygienists Association’s CEO reports he has committed to pay parity but hasn’t provided a timeline for the change. This leaves independent hygienists earning less in the interim.
Since the program launched earlier this month, 25,000 seniors have already received care under its coverage.
