Finding an Accessible Dentist Requires Persistence and Many Questions
A quick update on my dental dilemma…finding a suitable dentist involves dealing with three accessibility requirements:
- Physical access: Can I get to the dentist office, preferably without spending half a day on public transit? Can I get to the dentist chair? Needing to park my scooter and walk 8 feet to the chair does not count as accessible (for me); for others, it might pass.
- Staff attitudes: A dentist and staff who communicates directly with me and can work around my jerky cerebral palsy are essential.
- Directly bill the Ministry: Surprisingly (or not) many dental practices do not directly bill the Ministry, which is an obstacle for those of us on social assistance. The mere thought of attempting to be reimbursed after paying myself sends me shivers up my spine. (I’d love to hear from others who have succeeded and how they did it.)
A big thank you to my persistent virtual assistant Lori-ann for making umpteen phone calls. I now have an appointment at the Riverside Heights Dental Group – which appears to meet all three requirements – next Wednesday at 11:15am.
Fingers crossed!
If you enjoyed this post, consider buying me a chai tea latte. Thanks kindly.
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