Hong Kong’s community dental support program for the underprivileged may no longer have a cap on the number of participants, according to Tim Pang Hung-cheong, a member of the working group on oral health and dental care. The program, set to launch next year, is aimed at providing dental support to vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly facing financial difficulties.
Pang, speaking after the release of the group’s final report, noted that the exact criteria for beneficiaries have not yet been clearly defined by the authorities. However, potential participants may include those exempt from certain medical expenses by the Hospital Authority, recipients of old-age living allowances, and individuals referred by social workers.
Pang estimated that at least 40,000 people would benefit from the program, with the possibility of no limit on the number of participants depending on the program’s implementation and outcomes. He suggested that the plan could be adjusted after a review, especially since some individuals may not have had recent oral examinations.
In addition to this, the government is also set to launch the Primary Dental Co-care Pilot Scheme for Adolescents in the first quarter of next year. The scheme will provide subsidized dental check-ups for those aged 13 to 17. Under the scheme, the administration will contribute a HK$200 subsidy per participant, while the individual receiving the consultation will pay a similar amount, allowing dentists to earn a total of HK$400 per visit.
Spencer Chan Chiu-yee, chairman of the Hong Kong Dental Association, pointed out that current market prices for similar services range from several hundred dollars to HK$2,000, making the co-care program more affordable. He added that many dentists are eager to participate, though some may charge more than the recommended price to cover operational costs.
Chan also mentioned that the association hopes to negotiate lower fees with dentists to encourage greater participation in the program.
Deputy Secretary for Health Eddie Lee Lik-kong emphasized the importance of funding such programs, even amid budget deficits. “Prioritizing essential expenditures is crucial,” he said. “Investing in preventative care, like routine teeth cleaning, is more cost-effective than facing higher costs for extensive treatments in the future.”
