CALGARY (Staff) – Changes in Alberta’s extended health benefits program for seniors were recently announced by health minister Shirley McLellan.
Under the new plan, three-year optical benefit periods have been established starting Jan. 1, 1995 until Jan. 1, 1998. The benefit can be used anytime within that period rather than waiting for the anniversary date of the last paid benefit, said an Alberta Health official.
There will be no limit on dental care. However some of the more expensive procedures have been removed from the list of services paid by the government.
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An extensive list of coverage was released by the government at Christmas and seniors are advised to check what will covered, said the official.
Some work no longer covered
Every three years, the program will contribute money toward the payment of one complete pair of eyeglasses. This includes single vision, bifocal and trifocal lenses, as well as frames. Coverage no longer includes repair or replacement of frames.
Coverage extends to standard dental prevention and treatment services. Checkups, X-rays, fillings, root canals, limited gum work and extractions will be covered. Dentures are limited to one set every five years with relines ever two years. Cleaning, fluoride treatments, bridges and crowns are no longer covered.
The extended health benefits program was introduced in 1974 to assist senior citizens with the cost of glasses and dental work.
Previously, seniors needing dental work were eligible for a maximum of $960 per person for any two consecutive calendar years. The maximum benefit for glasses was $164 every three years.
