COALITION FIGHTS TO KEEP MEDICARE DENTAL SCHEME
The Member for Berowra, Philip Ruddock MP said today that Labor Government’s attempt to scrap the Medicare Dental Scheme has been thwarted in the Senate after the Opposition successfully moved a motion of disallowance to block the program's axing.
“The Opposition is strongly of the view that the Medicare Dental Scheme has been of immense benefit to Australians suffering chronic dental health problems,” Mr Ruddock said.
“This scheme provided more than 300,000 services for people suffering chronic dental disease in just 6 months, offering eligible people up to $4250 over two years for dental work.
“The Coalition sees a profound lack of logic in abolishing a public health initiative for which there is a demonstrated, and growing, need.’
“What we have seen in the Senate today is recognition that dental health care is vital.
“Those with chronic and complex dental health issues only had access to this programme for a few months and yet over 300,000 services were provided. How can the Government claim the programme was failing?
‘We encourage those in need to visit their GP to discuss a dental health plan.
“The Prime Minister and the Minister for Health should take note of what the community and health professionals want – access to treatment for those most in need,” Philip Ruddock said.