Revolutionizing Smiles: Upgraded Dental Registration to Boost Access!
January 3, 2025 – Attention, America! The Department of Health has some exciting news for those in need of dental care! Since launching the new online registration system for the public dental session on December 30, 2024, we’re thrilled to report it’s running like a well-oiled machine. No more braving the elements or standing in long lines at dental clinics, especially for our cherished elderly citizens!
However, we’ve noticed a few hiccups. In just three short days of service, some folks who booked appointments didn’t show up. Upon checking in, many cited busy schedules or simple forgetfulness, while others were surprised to learn the service focuses solely on emergency dental needs.
To tackle this issue and make the most of our resources, we’re rolling out a temporary over-subscription ballot starting this Monday. This innovative approach will allow more people to secure appointments than we have spots available, creating a vital waiting list to fill any gaps. Get ready, because help is on the way!
From January 6 onward, seniors aged 65 and older who register online but don’t get selected in the ballot will be placed on a priority waiting list. If you’re on that list, don’t worry—we’ll reach out to you personally to set up an appointment at your preferred clinic.
But wait, there’s more! Our team will actively contact successful applicants on the day ballot results are shared. You’ll receive SMS notifications confirming your appointment details, including where to go and when. If we know a selected individual can’t make it, we’ll reach out to those on the waiting list to offer them a chance to step in.
For those with appointments, remember to arrive at your designated dental clinic by 8:30 AM on the day of your visit. After checking you in, our dedicated staff will start calling waitlisted individuals at 9:30 AM to fill any open slots, so be prepared to arrive before 11:30 AM!
A department spokesperson emphasized that they’ll be continuously adjusting the number of successful appointments based on attendance patterns at each clinic. We’re committed to maintaining the highest service quality and will be monitoring the new system closely, with potential measures to address absenteeism if needed.
Remember, public dental services are designed for those requiring urgent care—think pain relief, tooth extractions, or other immediate needs like oral abscesses. With limited availability, we kindly ask everyone to use these services responsibly and avoid wasting valuable resources.
To make accessing the registration even easier, starting January 10, you can also use the Hospital Authority’s mobile app “HA Go,” alongside the eHealth app and the DH’s Dental Public Session website.
Finally, we’re committed to making registration as hassle-free as possible! If you need help navigating the online process, simply visit any dental clinic between 8:30 AM and 11:30 AM. Our friendly staff will assist you—no need for personal devices or computers!
