"A Child’s Smile Should Not Depend on a Parent’s Financial Situation"

I am sharing this story to highlight that children in publicly funded health systems should not be denied essential care due to a parent’s financial situation.

I am a parent managing weekly living expenses alongside ongoing family health costs. One of my greatest concerns is my 10-year-old child’s dental health and confidence.

I am grateful to the Oral Health Centre WA (OHCWA) for the work they began late in 2024, including surgery under general anaesthetic in December to remove approximately 8–10 teeth. My child has not been seen for any follow-up since that surgery, now over nine months ago.

I had to defer my child's first post-surgery appointment due to urgent family medical issues. When I later tried to rebook, I was denied because I still owed $323.70 from the previous stage of treatment. I have been making weekly payments toward this balance. I was also unaware of the costs for the next stage until recently, when I was told a $1,500 deposit is required before their treatment can continue.

The letter I received from OHCWA states:

“No further appointments can be made until the deposit is paid… We would be happy to review your child in the Orthodontic clinic once their financial situation improves.”

They also described orthodontic treatment as “generally considered non-essential” and said that delaying it “typically poses minimal risk.” However, one of my child's front teeth is already growing forward, and I fear this may lead to more complex problems requiring surgery or extensive braces in the future. Their confidence and self-esteem are already being affected.

This situation is particularly difficult because I am a survivor of two assaults, the second leaving me unable to work or walk properly. My financial hardship is not a choice — yet my child is being indirectly penalised for it.

My child’s smile, health, and self-esteem should not be the price paid for our financial hardship.