Green Shield Canada releases new report that highlights the importance of access to oral health care in Ottawa
In 2017/2018, close to 150,000 Ottawa residents avoided the dentist because of cost. More than 28,000 reported persistent pain in their mouths. A report by Green Shield Canada sheds light on the need for improved access to dental care in our city. Drawing on information from extensive survey and health data, the report found that while Ottawa showed the highest rate of dental insurance in Ontario, almost a quarter of residents still lack coverage. This segment of the population, which also tended to have poor oral health, was more likely to be from marginalized populations, including racialized groups, Indigenous peoples, seniors, and people with disabilities.
The Ottawa Community Foundation is proud to partner with Green Shield Canada and administers the GSC Community Impact Fund, which invests in local organizations dedicated to improving oral and mental health in Ottawa.