Support Better Access to Oral Health Care in BC

How You Can Help: Sign the Petition

A Message from BCDA's President

Overview

The British Columbia Dental Association (BCDA) is calling on the public to demand critical changes to the Health Professions & Occupations Act (HPOA) to prevent this legislation from making sweeping changes that could lead to fewer available professionals, longer wait times, and higher costs for patients. 

What We’re Asking For

We’re urging the government to revisit the legislation through meaningful consultation with all stakeholders. 

Why This Matters to You

Changes being made through the HPOA will impact all British Columbians who rely on accessible dental care. No other jurisdiction in Canada has legislation like this.   

What's at Stake

  • The complexity and cost of new regulations is a deterrent for skilled dentists and oral health professionals. They may choose to leave BC or not come here at all. You may have less access to care.
  • Patients in rural and underserved areas may face longer wait times and fewer options for care.
  • Higher costs for patients and dentists due to added regulatory burdens that are unnecessary.

How You Can Help: Sign the Petition

Join us in standing up for accessible, high-quality oral health care in BC. Together, we can advocate for fair and effective regulations that protect the interests of all British Columbians. Thank you!

About This Petition

 This petition is intended to support improved oral health care access and affordability for all British Columbians. Participation is entirely voluntary, and patients should feel free to decide whether to participate without any pressure or obligation. Your signature helps amplify our message to the provincial government, ensuring policymakers hear the concerns of patients and professionals alike. 

“None of the consultations undertaken during the development of this legislation remotely envisioned the extent and severity of changes proposed. This is very concerning for dentists and likely all health care professionals across British Columbia who are still grappling with the impact of COVID-19 on the delivery of care. A chronic dental shortage and the implementation of a Canadian dental care program and other regulatory changes are among the issues that the BCDA and our members are currently addressing. There is limited capacity to study this extensive legislation in detail and fully understand its impact on health care providers and patients.”
–Shirley Bond, MLA, November 2022 Hansard Notes

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