1 In 5 Australians Delay Dental Treatment Due To Cost

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A study has revealed that a fifth of Australians delay dental treatment due to cost. According to a report commissioned by the Council of Australian Governments (Coag) Reform Council, cost is a major issue for a large proportion of dental patients.

 

The study showed that people are less affected by the cost of GP care and only 1 in 12 admitted to delaying treatment or putting off getting a prescription as a result of financial difficulty. One in 17 people admitted that they delay going to see a GP due to cost, highlighting the problems facing dental patients.

 

The report also highlighted the difference between wealthier and poorer areas, with patients from less affluent areas twice as likely to put off seeing a dentist or doctor.

 

The Coag Reform Council is due to be dissolved this year and the final report shows mixed fortunes relating to the development of health policy and standards of health among the Australian public in recent years. Life expectancy has increased, with men expected to live 79.9 years and women to 84.3, but the proportion of people who are overweight or obese has increased to 62.7 per cent. This increase in obesity has been linked to a rise in type 2 diabetes, with around 1 in 25 people believed to be affected by the disease.

 

Chairman of the Coag Reform Council, John Brumby, stated that the report highlights the fact that dental care is too expensive in Australia and many people are simply coming to the conclusion that they cannot afford to see a dentist on a regular basis.

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