Canadian Dental Hygienists Association Calls for Equal Pay

CANADA: The Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA) has leveled accusations of a double standard against the Liberal government regarding reimbursement rates in the newly introduced federal dental plan. 

Last week, Health Canada disclosed a guide outlining reimbursement rates for service providers under the national dental-care plan, which aims to extend oral health coverage to millions of low- and middle-income families.

Disparity in Reimbursement Rates

Reimbursement rates, which vary across provinces, have sparked contention as the federal government intends to pay significantly less for cleanings performed at private hygiene clinics compared to those conducted in dentist offices.

Donna Wells, manager of professional practice at CDHA, emphasized the association’s stance, stating, “Ideally, we do believe that a dental hygienist in business for herself should be paid the same as a dental hygienist that’s working in a dental office for the same procedures.”

The discrepancy in reimbursement rates, exceeding 20 percent in some instances, has drawn criticism from dental-care providers who fear that low reimbursement rates coupled with administrative burdens could undermine the program’s effectiveness. Despite repeated requests for clarification, Health Canada has not provided specific figures regarding provider enrollment in the program, except to note that it extends to “thousands” of providers.

Implications and Advocacy

The federal dental plan, a cornerstone of the Liberals’ agreement with the NDP, is poised to offer government-sponsored coverage to uninsured families earning under $90,000 annually. However, concerns raised by the CDHA regarding payment disparities underscore broader issues of fairness and equity within the program. Wells expressed surprise and dismay at the persistence of the discrepancy, suggesting that it raises concerns of discrimination, particularly given that the hygienist workforce is predominantly female.

As discussions continue, attention is directed toward bridging the gap in reimbursement rates to ensure fair compensation for all dental-care providers. CDHA emphasizes the need for parity in pay, highlighting the shared costs and overheads borne by independent hygienists, akin to those in dental offices. 

With assurances from government officials of evolving the program over time, stakeholders await tangible steps to address the concerns raised and uphold principles of fairness and equality within the federal dental-care plan.