OHAA Advocacy Update on OPGs
We’re continuing to advocate for fair, modern Medicare processes that reflect the vital role of Oral Health Practitioners (OHPs).
Currently, OHPs cannot refer patients for OPGs (full-mouth X-rays) under Medicare, even though they’re trained and qualified to do so. This outdated rule creates delays, extra costs, and barriers to care, especially in rural and remote communities.
We recently wrote to the Minister for Health, Disability and Ageing calling on the Australian Government to address this.
Allowing OHPs to refer for OPGs would result in:
- Faster diagnosis and treatment
- Reduced costs for patients
- Better use of the oral health workforce
It’s a simple, low-cost reform that improves equity and aligns with national health priorities and the Government’s support for key reforms in their formal response to the Senate Select Committee into the Provision of and Access to Dental Services in Australia report, A System in Decay.
Your support and voice is crucial in advocacy matters such as this, as we collaboratively continue to shape the future of oral health. Join us and become a member: