Jim Anderton of the Progressive Party proposed to subsidize dental care costs. This is the first time such a proposal has been put forth and has been received well due to the rising dental care costs. New Zealand lacks subsidies in the area of dental care unlike the U.K which has dental care included in the NHS (National Health Service). The dentists that are employed by NHS provide dental care to the public at a lower cost than private providers.
The New Zealand Herald quotes Mr. Anderton “I know what my own teeth have cost, and I’ve had the luxury of being able to look after them. I’ve still got my own teeth, but in recent times it has cost me a fortune. How on Earth on a low income would you be able to afford that?”
Mr. Anderton also added that he would like to see dental care as a part of primary healthcare strategy. The exact details have not been worked out and Mr. Anderton would be looking to consult an expert on the matter. The nurses association gave him a standing ovation after he proposed the idea. Mr. Anderton said “Nurses know the state of health of people’s teeth is a real problem.”
Jim Anderton is the sole representative of the Progressive Party in the parliament which has a coalition with the Labour Party.
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