The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), poised to become one of the nation’s most extensive social initiatives, aims to deliver oral healthcare to as many as nine million eligible Canadians. According to a Health Canada update, over 2.1 million individuals have been approved for the plan, with approximately 250,000 already receiving care.
Meanwhile, to streamline the process for oral health providers – from dentists and dental hygienists to denturists and dental specialists – the government has introduced measures to simplify patient treatment and CDCP claim submissions.
Health Minister Mark Holland emphasized: “Allowing providers options for how they provide care to CDCP clients means that more people will be able to receive affordable dental care. We are dedicated to collaborating closely with oral health partners to make sure that all CDCP members enjoy equitable access to affordable care. This is something every Canadian deserves.”
Health Canada noted that nearly 12,000 providers have already enrolled in the CDCP, with further ones joining daily. Recognizing that some providers prefer not to officially sign up, the government has now allowed eligible providers to offer services to CDCP patients on a per-claim basis without formal enrollment.
To minimize out-of-pocket expenses for CDCP patients, participating providers must agree to bill Sun Life directly and accept payment for services covered under the CDCP. Providers will receive reimbursement from Sun Life within 48 hours initially, with plans to reduce this timeframe to 24 hours.
Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, highlighted the significance of this change, stating: “Dental care is an integral part of our health and wellbeing. We’re making it easier for more Canadian families to access quality dental care.
“This change reduces out-of-pocket costs for families and speeds up reimbursements, making dental services more accessible and affordable across the country. It’s another concrete step towards fairness for every generation.”
The policy also ensures that Canadians covered by the CDCP can choose their preferred provider, provided it agrees to direct billing with Sun Life. Those without a provider can consult local oral health professionals or use Sun Life’s CDCP Provider Search tool to find participating providers.
Dave Jones, president of Sun Life Health, added: “We look forward to working with even more providers across Canada to ensure claims are processed, and Canadians have access to the care they need. Oral health care providers are critical to the CDCP, and we’re thrilled to provide more ways for them to participate in this important and life-changing program.”
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