OTTAWA – Government officials say the new federal dental insurance plan will be phased in over the course of 2024, with the first claims likely to be processed in May.
The officials, who provided a briefing on the condition they not be named, say details of the $13-billion programme are expected to be announced at a news conference Monday morning.
The insurance plan is a condition of the Liberals’ confidence and supply deal with the New Democrats to secure the opposition party’s support on key votes.
The deal calls for a plan that would provide dental benefits directly to low- and middle-income Canadians without private insurance.
Applications are expected to open as early as next week, starting with qualifying seniors over the age of 87, but it will be months before they can start receiving benefits.
Eligibility will be gradually expanded over the course of the year to include all seniors, children under 18 and people with disabilities.
