Dentists deny allegations of scamming

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Australian dentists are being quizzed as part of an investigation surrounding claims of fraud.

Around 250 dentists have been placed on a list by the federal government, who have set up a task force to investigate fraudulent Medicare claims. So far, eleven dentists have been audited and officials have found that over 7.5 million dollars has been fraudulently claimed. The dentists are alleged to have falsely claimed for work they have either not done or not completed. The investigation is centred on the chronic disease dental scheme, which offers patients with chronic illnesses, which affect their oral health, such as diabetes, a sum of 4,250 dollars when they are referred by their GP.

The initial findings of the audits have encouraged the government to chase up a number of other dentists and the number of dentists set to be investigated is increasing every day. Chris Bowen, Human Services Minister, ordered the task force to be established.

The Australian Dental Association has reacted angrily to the situation and representatives claim that it is the system which is at fault, rather than the dentists. Neil Hewson, the president of the association, said that the manner in which dentists were being vilified was unacceptable and advised the government to focus on the shortcomings of the chronic disease dental scheme.

The chronic disease dental scheme is a remnant of the Howard government and the new government is trying to replace it with a fairer system, which offers greater assistance for the poor and vulnerable; however, the motion has twice been blocked by the senate.

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June 12th, 2010 at 08:47 PM
eleonora Says :

A couple of years ago I went to a dentist and I am sure he claimed for hygienist treatment but he just went with a special attachment and a few minutes later my teeth looked the same as b4 my teeth badly marked . I wont be going back to him.