Free Dental Clinics Help 1,500 People in New Zealand
Around 1,500 people across New Zealand benefited from free dental clinics last weekend as part of an initiative to reach out to those on low incomes.
Smile New Zealand, a new programme targeting those who struggle to afford routine dental care, kicked off in style last weekend (Saturday 16th May), with a host of free clinics dotted around the North and South islands.
The initiative, which is run by Southern Cross Health Trust in partnership with the New Zealand Dental Association, provides dental care free of charge for those in possession of a Community Services Card.
Last weekend, 83 dentists gave up their time to help out at 18 practices around the country and the clinics were extremely popular. Most of the clinics were booked out within 48 hours of the locations and dates being confirmed by the trust. The trusts contacted areas of high need and targeted shelters and health centres to ensure help was available to the most vulnerable.
Following the success of the first wave of clinics, another dental day is planned for November and further details will be released closer to the time.
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