The medicare child dental benefit scheme is a government scheme to pay for childrens’ dental treatment in a private practice or public setting. Eligible children aged 2-17 years old are entitled to up to $1000 worth of basic dental treatment that can be claimed at the practice. Darlinghurst Dental are proud to say that we participate in the scheme and bulk bill the services. Bulk billing allows us to claim directly from Medicare for your child’s treatment.
What treatment can be done?
Services that receive a benefit under the program include examinations, x-rays, cleaning, fissure sealing, fillings, root canals, extractions and partial dentures. Many of these services have claiming restrictions. Services can be provided in a public or private setting. Benefits are not available for orthodontic or cosmetic dental work and cannot be paid for any services provided in a hospital.
Is my child eligible for the scheme?
The Department of Human Services determines eligibility from the start of each year, and throughout the year. A child is eligible if they are eligible for Medicare, are aged between 2 and 17 years and receive a relevant Australian governement payment, such as Family Tax Benefit Part A. When a child is eligible, their parent or guardian should be sent a notification, either electronically or by post. The letter can be used as proof of eligibility when you attend. The child is eligible throughout the entire calendar year, even if they turn 18 later in that year, or stop receiving the relevant payment. They must be eligible for Medicare on the day the service is provided. The $1000 limit applies for two years. It can all be used up in the first year if needed, but expires at the end of the second calendar year.
I’m not sure if I am eligible, can I check?
You can check your eligibility at your Medicare online account or by calling 132 011. More information about the scheme is available at the Department of Human Services Child Dental Benefit information page. If you have any questions, you can also contact us here at Darlinghurst Dental. Our friendly staff are more than happy to help.
