Non-profit dental clinic funding ensures continued service for low-income – Vernon News

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Provincial funding will ensure Vernon’s Community Dental Access Centre can continue to serve those who might not otherwise be able to afford to see a dentist.

Non-profit dental clinics across the province will receive $2.8 million in new support over the next three years, says Vernon-Monashee MLA Harwinder Sandhu.

The clinic serves low-income residents of Vernon, Coldstream, Lavington, Lumby, Cherryville, Falkland, Armstrong, Enderby and Grindrod.

There is a one-time registration fee of $10 per family, and reduced dental care fees are dependent on patient income.

“Having previously worked in health-care services as a registered nurse in various settings, I have seen first-hand how the lack of dental care can contribute to overall health problems and in some cases serious complications,” Sandhu said in a press release.

Money should not be a barrier to dental care, and this funding will allow not-for-profit clinics to continue providing this essential care.”

The funding will help clinics offset costs, such as materials and dental lab fees. It will also support the purchase of equipment, such as sterilization and X-ray machines, dental instruments and pediatric equipment.

There are 21 not-for-profit clinics in the province.

In Vernon, appointments can be made by visiting the clinic at 3107C 31st Ave.

Learn more about the service at communitydentalaccess.ca.