The Doctors' Reform Society believes that the results of a survey released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare yesterday are a further indication that the current Coalition government has little concern for the health of our most needy citizens.

'The scrapping of the Federal Dental Scheme is undoubtedly a major reason for the deterioration in dental health in recent years' claimed DRS national president, Dr Peter Davoren.

'Poor dental care not only causes discomfort and embarassment to those affected but can also lead to serious systemic illnesses. The consequences of people feeling uncomfortable about their appearance as a result of poor dentition and missing teeth is a powerful stimulus to social isolation further aggravating the poverty trap' said Dr Davoren.

Dr Wooldridge can not cry poor. He only needs to reduce the Private Health Insurance rebate from 30% to 29% to have sufficient funds to re-introduce the Federal Dental scheme' claimed Dr Davoren.

For further information:
Dr Peter Davoren
President
Doctors' Reform Society
20 Mar 2001

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