Oral Health Fee for Service Scheme (OHFFSS)
The Oral Health Fee for Service Scheme (OHFFSS) is a government-funded program that plays a crucial role in providing subsidised oral health care services. It effectively addresses the challenges individuals face when accessing public dental services, such as high demand and limited resources. The program operates in collaboration with Local Health Districts (LHDs) and private entities to deliver dental care services to eligible patients.
Once a patient’s eligibility for the OHFFSS program is confirmed, LHDs issue vouchers that can be used to access treatment from private dental services. This partnership between LHDs and private dental practitioners bridges the gap in dental care provision, particularly in situations where immediate treatment is required. For example, the OHFFSS program offers an affordable option for eligible patients in emergencies or when there is no public dental service available in their area.
Eligible Criteria for Oral Health Fee for Service Scheme
To be eligible for free public oral health services under OHFFSS, adults must meet the following criteria:
- Reside within the boundary of the providing Local Health District (LHD)
- Be eligible for Medicare
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Hold, or be listed as a dependent on, one of the following valid Australian Government concession cards:
- Health Care Card
- Pensioner Concession Card
- Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
It’s important to note that holders of the State Seniors Card are not eligible for care unless they also hold one of the other concession cards mentioned above. For more details regarding eligibility, please refer to the eligibility policy directive.
What dental services are covered under OHFFSS?
Under OHFFSS, the covered dental services include:
- Emergency dental care
- General dental care
- Dentures provision
The public dental service assesses and documents the required dental care on the OHFFSS voucher, ensuring that eligible individuals receive the necessary treatments specific to their oral health needs.
How to Get OHFFSS Vouchers for Dental Care
OHFFSS vouchers are issued in specific circumstances, such as emergency cases or when the public dental service is unable to provide the required treatment. The type of voucher issued is determined by the patient’s dental needs and the resources available to the public dental service. To receive an OHFFSS voucher, it must be obtained through the Priority Oral Health Program triage questionnaire or an authorized mechanism approved by NSW Health.
There are three types of OHFFSS vouchers available based on the patient’s needs:
- Episodic care: Designed to address the patient’s most urgent treatment needs.
- General care: Comprehensive voucher covering a full dental examination.
- Denture provision: Specifically includes voucher coverage for denture care.
To inquire about eligibility for an OHFFSS voucher in Wollondilly, Camden or Campbelltown, please contact the South Western Sydney phone number at (02) 9293 3333 or reach out to the state-wide coordinator at 1800 938 133 (free call). Call today to determine your eligibility and access the necessary OHFFSS voucher for dental care.
Voucher Limits
The maximum amounts payable for authorized vouchers are as follows:
- Episodic Voucher: $450.00 (or as printed on the voucher)
- General Voucher: $1000.00 (or as printed on the voucher)
- Denture Voucher: $1750.00 (or as printed on the voucher)
Local health districts and specialty health networks may:
- Adjust voucher limits based on local policy
- Pre-authorize and fund other ADA items not listed in this schedule, if applicable to an individual patient or model of care
Please note that the actual limits are printed on each voucher.
OHFFSS Voucher Expiry | Important Timeframes and Recommendations
OHFFSS vouchers come with expiration dates, calculated from the date of issue. Here are the specific timeframes for each voucher type:
- Episodic care: One month
- General care and dentures: Three months
To ensure your voucher remains valid, it is highly recommended that you schedule an appointment with an approved private practitioner within ten days of receiving the voucher. This proactive step helps avoid any potential expiration issues. For detailed information, please consult the NSW Health OHFFSS-Brochure.
Appin Dental Surgery | Your OHFFSS Vouchers Accepted
We are thrilled to announce that Appin Dental Surgery proudly accepts OHFFSS vouchers for eligible patients residing in the Campbelltown area, including Wollondilly and Camden.
Our experienced team provides high-quality dental care to all patients, regardless of their financial circumstances. Contact us to schedule an appointment and make use of your OHFFSS voucher. We offer comprehensive examinations, personalized treatment plans, and a range of services including preventive care, fillings, extractions, and root canal treatments. Our state-of-the-art facility and compassionate staff ensure a comfortable and stress-free experience.
OHFFS Dentist in Wollondilly
If you have any questions about the OHFFSS program or would like to schedule an appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our staff will be happy to assist you and provide the necessary information. Remember, your oral health is essential, and we are here to support you on your journey to a healthy and beautiful smile.
Contact us at (02) 9068 1369 or conveniently book online