On the occasion of World Oral Health Day, the Department of Health (DH) today (March 20) emphasized the importance of preventing dental diseases and managing oral health as a cost-effective way to maintain overall health and retain teeth. Today also marks the launch of the Primary Dental Co-care Pilot Scheme for Adolescents (PDCC).
Celebrated annually on March 20, this year's World Oral Health Day theme is "A Happy Mouth is a Happy Mind. Spread Happiness Everywhere." The DH's Oral Health Promotion Division (OHPD) has released a new promotional video on YouTube to encourage good oral health practices and highlight the importance of annual check-ups. Maintaining preventive oral care can help individuals retain their teeth well into old age.
Dr. Kitty Hse, Consultant in charge of Dental Services at the DH, stated, "There is a close relationship between oral health and general health. Conditions like tooth decay and periodontal disease share risk factors with cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Daily habits such as thorough toothbrushing, regular check-ups, healthy eating, and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol are crucial for maintaining both oral and general health."
The PDCC is designed to subsidize adolescents for dental check-ups at private clinics through a co-payment arrangement. Eligible adolescents can receive subsidized services once per calendar year, with a government subsidy of HK$200 provided each time. Participants will pay a co-payment fee set by their chosen dentist, with 67% of these fees at HK$200 or less, and a minimum co-payment of HK$50.
Subsidized services under the PDCC include:
- Dental check-up
- Oral health risk assessment
- Dental scaling
- Personalized self-care advice
- Fluoride application as needed
- Check-up report
To improve transparency, dentists are required to disclose fees for X-ray examinations, fillings, and extractions under the PDCC. Participating clinics will display a designated logo for easy identification.
Adolescents aged 13 to 17 (or turning 13 this calendar year) with a valid Hong Kong Identity Card and registered in the Electronic Health Record Sharing System (eHealth) can join the PDCC. For more details, visit the DH's thematic website and promotional video clips. Participants can check the list of registered dentists, which includes their contact information and co-payment fees, and make appointments accordingly.
Dr. Hse emphasized that preventive dental services are more effective and cost-efficient than curative treatments. For more information about oral health and the PDCC, visit the OHPD's website, the "Love Teeth HK" Facebook page, the YouTube channel, and the PDCC website. The DH has informed secondary school students and parents about the PDCC through the Education Bureau and promoted it at Student Health Service Centres and School Dental Clinics.
Related News:
Public clinics reach 102% utilization rate, Govt to expand dental care programs
Comment