Medicare Teen Dental Plan, 2008

Last updated: 01 July 2008

What is the Medicare Teen Dental Plan?

The Medicare Teen Dental Plan (MTDP) is being introduced state wide as part of the Australian Government's plan for increasing access to dental services in Australia. It delivers on the Government's election commitment to provide assistance to families to help keep their teenagers teeth in good health and encourage young adults to continue to look after their teeth once they become independent. MTDP vouchers, valued at up to $150, will be issued to eligible teenagers for a preventive dental check.

What's the purpose of the new MTDP?

The purpose of the new plan is to encourage prevention and good oral health practices in young people as they become increasingly responsible for their own oral health. It provides financial assistance that will make preventive care affordable for families. Preventive care provided under the MTDP is a check-up and if required x-rays, scale and clean, fluoride treatment, oral hygiene instruction, dietary advice and/or fissure sealant.

Who is eligible for the MTDP?

To be eligible for the MTDP, and issued with a voucher, a teenager must, for at least some part of the calendar year, be aged between 12 and 17 years and fit at least one of the criteria listed below:

• be a family member who receives Tax Benefit Part A
• receive Youth Allowance
• receive Abstudy

How does the MTDP work?

MTDP vouchers, worth up to $150, will be sent to eligible teenagers to take to a public dentist or a private dentist (who is participating in the program) for a preventive dental check.

Who does the MTDP Voucher cover?

Only the person named on the voucher. The voucher cannot be transferred to another person.

How does the dentist confirm that a person is eligible?

If the teenager presents the voucher at the time of service the dentist does not have to do anything else to verify a teenager's eligibility.

Where can the MTDP Voucher be used?

The vouchers can be used at any private dental practice (registered with Medicare Australia) that is taking part in the program.

When are the MTDP Vouchers issued?

In 2008 most teenagers will receive their vouchers in July or August. In subsequent years most will receive them in January or February of each calendar year for as long as they remain eligible to receive one.

What happens if a MTDP Voucher is lost or damaged?

Medicare Australia will issue a replacement for lost or destroyed vouchers, as long as the preventive check has not already been claimed during that calendar year. Teenagers should phone Medicare on 132011 to request a replacement voucher.

What do I do if I need more information?

If you have any questions or concerns about the MTDP please contact Medicare Teen Dental Plan on 132 011 or visit
www.medicareaustralia.gov.au .