Timeshare contract on orthodontic treatment
27th July 2023
The Minister of Health, along with representatives of Iceland Health and orthodontic specialists, signed a contract on orthodontic treatment at the Ministry of Health today, the first time such an agreement has been made on the services of orthodontic specialists.
The contract is an important milestone and creates the conditions for increasing government participation in orthodontic treatment.
The three-year contract shall take effect at least on September 1at and cover orthodontic services at the dentist's own institute for health insured individuals. This agreement covers both general orthodontic treatment for children, where Iceland Health pays dental replacement support, as well as necessary orthodontic treatment for serious consequences of congenital defects, accidents and disease. At the same time as the agreement enters into force, grants for general orthodontic treatment will increase.
The introduction of an agreement on orthodontic treatment significantly strengthens the position of patients. In addition to increased state payment participation in orthodontic treatment, the Convention provides for a collaborative committee that promotes increased cooperation and dialogue between stakeholders and addresses issues that arise regarding the implementation of the Convention. At the same time, active participation in the development of digital solutions, new technologies and innovation leading to increased efficiency and quality in services is provided for.
Work on amendments to the existing Regulation No. 451/2013 on the participation of health insurance in the cost of health insured dentistry is currently in progress and a new Regulation is expected to enter into force at the time of the entry into force of the Agreement. The study will include an amount of a grant for general orthodontic treatment and a clarification of the participation of Iceland Health.
The agreement is based on the existence of a cooperation agreement between Iceland Health and the Icelandic Dental Association, which was signed in May this year.
Willum Þór Þórsson, Minister of Health ,
This is an important agreement that creates the basis for increasing the state's contribution to orthodontic treatment, thereby reducing the cost to those who require the service, in keeping with the emphasis of the government.
Sigurður Helgi Helgason, director of Iceland Health
It is extremely gratifying that, for the first time, all dental services have been agreed, thereby creating the conditions for increased support for those who need the services most.
