ADA NSW welcomes the news from the government that funding for the national Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is being extended for a further four years.
If a patient commenced their two calendar year period at the beginning of 2022 – then they will remain at $1026 until their two year period ends on 31 December 2023.
However, for patients commencing their two year period at the beginning of 2023 and beyond – they will have the increased cap of $1052.
Statistics show that around 45% of kids in Australia haven’t visited the dentist by the age of 5 according to the last Australian Oral Health Tracker. While the longer time frame is a good first step, the ADA NSW is also calling on the government to better promote the CDBS and bolster its utilisation.
Many dentists are supporting the scheme, but only about 40% of children across Australia access the CDBS, and particularly families from the most disadvantaged areas are missing out.
Need assistance?
The ADA NSW Advisory Services team can help
If you are participating in the CDBS (or any other government scheme), it is essential that you understand the rules and administrative requirements that govern patient eligibility and claiming. The ADA NSW Advisory Services team can assist with member enquiries by calling (02) 8436 9944 or emailing advisory@adansw.com.au for assistance.
Additional information:
- Dental Benefits Amendment Rules (No. 1) 2022 (FED) passes in Parliament
- CDBS ADA NSW website page
- ADA NSW media release – 12 December 2022
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