The B.C. Dental Association has released a new report titled "Building a Sustainable Oral Healthcare System for British Columbia," highlighting five critical areas for improving dental health care in the province. The report addresses immediate and growing challenges such as access to care, workforce shortages, an evolving policy environment, and rising demand.
Key Recommendations
The report offers practical, evidence-based steps to protect access to care, support vulnerable populations, and respond to increasing demand. Dr. Jillian Belbin, president of the B.C. Dental Association, emphasized the need for partnership between dentists and other stakeholders to ensure reforms are practical and grounded in patient realities.
Challenges Facing B.C.'s Oral Healthcare System
According to the report, B.C.'s oral healthcare system faces immediate challenges that require coordinated action. These include ensuring timely and affordable access to dental services, addressing workforce shortages, and adapting to policy changes.
Expert Insights
Dr. Jillian Belbin joined the Conversations That Matter series to discuss the report and the future of dental care in B.C. She highlighted the importance of collaboration to deliver superior dental care. The full interview is available at vancouversun.com/tag/conversations-that-matter.
For more information on Dr. Belbin's career, visit careersthatmatter.ca. Additionally, a Conversations Live event on artificial intelligence and cybersecurity is scheduled for Sept. 22.
