Regional press highlight waiting lists too

Yesterday's editions of the Geelong Advertiser, Bendigo Advertiser and Ballarat Courier all picked up the ADAVB's dental waiting list story, which has also been the subject of a media release by Hugh Delahunty MP, National Party Member for Lowan.

The Courier had already published a news story about their 53 month waiting times on Wednesday, but followed this with an editorial on Friday which supported the ADAVB call for further action to address the unacceptably long delays in access to dental treatment for people in the Ballarat area. The opinion piece included the following statement:

"The Australian Dental Association Victorian Branch President Dr Chris Callahan quite rightly argues patients deserve better access to dental treatment".

Mr Delahunty's release drew attention to our proposal for additional Commonwealth Supported Places (CSPs) for BDSc candidates at The University of Melbourne School of Dental Science:

"Other assistance could include additional funding for training opportunities and an expanded scholarship program for those prepared to work in regional areas. The Australian Dental Association estimates that Victoria needs at least 35 additional university places to address the current problems."