More than 350 homeless people receive free dental care with new program in Victoria

A new pilot program aimed at improving access to free dental care for people who are homeless, or at risk of becoming homeless has so far treated more than 350 people across Victoria.

The trial which commenced in October 2014 is an initiative of the North West Oral Health Leadership Group with a partnership between Dental Health Services Victoria (DHSV) and the Northern Melbourne Medicare Local (NMML)

The purpose of the pilot was to improve access to dental care services and tested two methods to raise awareness about free emergency and general dental care in the north and west metropolitan Melbourne area. Eligible clients were given a Priority Access Card, which is a small wallet-sized card, entitling the recipient to immediate dental care without the barrier of a waiting list and co-payment fee.

Dr Colin Riley from Dental Health Services Victoria said maintaining dental health is a major contributor to achieving good overall health and engaging case workers and community nurses was one of the key success factors.

“People who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless can use the Priority Access Card at a number of practices in the area. To target the right people we are engaging case workers and community nurses to ensure those most at risk get the dental care they need.

“They can help to identify need, explain the purpose of the card and discuss any barriers or issues. They may also play a key role in facilitating attendance where possible.”

The trial took place across eight homeless service agencies in the North West region. A number of posters were designed, one relying on illustrations and no text to raise awareness of the free dental care program. Case workers and community nurses also played a vital role in explaining the program.

Across the state, 1,809 patients who visited Victoria’s public dental clinics have identified as homeless in 2013/2014, an increase of 34% compared to the previous year.

Last year DHSV selected Father Bob Maguire as an oral health ambassador to help improve oral health of Melbourne’s homeless.