Provision of services to veteran patients by dental hygienists
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
It has come to light recently, that services provided by dental hygienists on behalf of dentists to eligible persons, as determined by the Veterans Entitlement Act 1986, do not attract a rebate under the Fee Schedule of Dental Services for Dentists and Dental Specialists.
The Australian Dental Association Inc. (ADA) is concerned about the impact this restriction places on the ability of dental providers to provide holistic and appropriate care for Veterans and other eligible card holders. The ADA has meet with the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, the Hon. Warren Snowdon and representatives from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
The ADA is hopeful that these discussions have identified a possible interim solution and is working closely with DVA on the precise details as to how dental hygienists may legitimately continue to provide services to Veterans on behalf of a dentists. ADA hope to be providing further advice on this matter later today.