The Community Dental Support Programme (CDSP) is set to launch on May 26, 2025, bringing much-needed relief to underprivileged patients in Hong Kong who face financial difficulties in accessing dental care. This new initiative complements the existing dental grants under the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) Scheme and the emergency dental services provided by government dental clinics, aiming to significantly enhance the availability of dental services for those in need.
The CDSP is designed to double the service capacity of current general public sessions at government dental clinics, which means it will serve approximately 40,000 participants annually. This substantial increase in capacity is a significant step towards ensuring that more individuals can receive the dental care they need, improving their overall oral health and quality of life.
To be eligible for the CDSP, participants must meet several criteria. First, they must hold a Hong Kong identity card. Second, they need to be enrolled in the Electronic Health Record Sharing System, which helps streamline the process and ensures that healthcare providers have access to essential medical information. Finally, participants must be current beneficiaries or recipients of specific social welfare schemes, or they must be Hospital Authority patients with a Medical Fee Waiver. These requirements ensure that the program targets those who are most in need of financial assistance for dental care.
Each service user can apply for subsidized dental services once every 180 days. The range of services available includes preventive and curative oral health and dental care, such as oral health assessments, medications for dental pain relief, X-ray examinations, and dental fillings or extractions. The program introduces a “Teeth Filling/Extraction Quota,” which means that each tooth filled or extracted counts towards this quota. Service users are required to pay an administration fee of $50 for each tooth filled or extracted, with a maximum fee of $150. This means that treatment for a maximum of three teeth will be provided every 180 days.
However, the program also includes provisions to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent access to care. If a service user receives certain home care services or is eligible under the Medical Fee Waiver scheme, the government will fully subsidize the administration fee. This ensures that even the most vulnerable individuals can receive the dental care they need without incurring additional financial burdens.
As of the announcement, 32 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are participating in the CDSP, providing nearly 80 dental service points across all 18 districts of Hong Kong. This extensive network of service points ensures that eligible patients can find a convenient location to receive their dental care. Starting May 26, 2025, eligible patients can visit the dedicated webpage to select and contact their preferred clinic to make an appointment for government-subsidized dental care services.
In addition to the launch of the CDSP, the Department of Health has announced plans to further enhance dental care services. From June onwards, the department will increase dental general public sessions by nearly 30%, which will significantly boost the availability of dental care for the general public. The department also plans to introduce enhancements to the online registration system for these sessions by the end of June. These improvements will make it easier for patients to schedule appointments and access the care they need.
The launch of the CDSP represents a significant step forward in addressing the dental health needs of underprivileged individuals in Hong Kong. By doubling the service capacity of government dental clinics and providing financial assistance, the program aims to ensure that more people can access the dental care they need to maintain good oral health. With the participation of 32 NGOs and nearly 80 service points across all 18 districts, the CDSP is well-positioned to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those who need it most.
