CDA continues to work with Abacus Data to track public opinion and behavioural trends related to current issues in dentistry, most notably the Canada Dental Benefit (CDB). The first survey of 2023 aims to get a better sense of the public’s reaction, participation, and issues regarding the interim CDB for children under 12. This survey looks at the impact of the first phase of the federal government’s approach to dental care, as well as the proposed federal dental care plan in general. It also explores other trends in employer-benefits plan coverage and comfort levels related to visiting the dental office. Wave 13 of this national survey was conducted in February/March 2023 and reported separately on Canadians who are parents of children under age 12 and who have household incomes of under $90,000. First Wave of 2023 Public Opinion Survey Data Increasing Awareness of the CDB In the general population, support for the federal dental plan remains high (71%) and even higher among the target group for the dental plan (81%). To the questions: “Had you heard anything in the news about this newly announced first phase for kids under 12 in families with income less than $90,000?”, 58% have or think they have, showing a 9% increase since October 2022. Most importantly, among those who would be eligible, 67% are aware of the program, also showing an increase in the same time frame. Among those aware, 68% would be much more or somewhat more likely to go to the dentist regularly, an increase of 5%. Almost 70% of those eligible for the CDB say they are somewhat or much more likely to go to the dentist regularly because of the new benefit. Parents Applying for and Receiving the CDB As of March 2023, 17% of eligible families have applied to receive the CDB. Of those who hadn’t applied, a little over half just haven’t done so yet, but 41% did plan to apply. More than two-thirds (70%) had already received their dental benefit. The process is rated well by most who have already applied for the CDB, and 84% were satisfied with the process. Speed of receiving dental services was also very well rated by families, 9 Issue 3 | 2023 |
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