Gov’t launches dental scheme for underprivileged patients

Each service user can apply for subsidised dental services once every 180 days.

Hong Kong’s Department of Health announced that the Community Dental Support Programme (CDSP) will be launched on May 26 to provide additional dental services to underprivileged patients with financial difficulties.

Each service user can apply for subsidised dental services, covering preventive and curative oral health and dental care services, once every 180 days.

CDSP service users must hold a Hong Kong identity card and be enrolled in the Electronic Health Record Sharing System. Hospital Authority patients with a medical fee waiver are also eligible.

Moreover, they must be recipients of the Old Age Living Allowance, Community Care Service Voucher Scheme for the Elderly, Integrated Home Care Services, Enhanced Home & Community Care Services, or Home Support Services.

Subject to dental assessment, users will receive subsidised services, including oral health checks, pain relief medications, X-rays, and fillings or extractions, with each tooth contributing to the ‘Teeth Filling/Extraction Quota.’

Each user is required to pay an administration fee to providers of $50 for each tooth filled or extracted, up to a maximum fee of $150. Treatment for a maximum of three teeth will be provided every 180 days.

Meanwhile, the government will fully subsidise the fee for those receiving Integrated Home Care Services, Enhanced Home & Community Care Services or Home Support Services, or are eligible for a Medical Fee Waiver.