'I need help now': Ukrainian newcomer waiting months for approval of dental care
CTV
A Ukrainian mother and newcomer to Alberta has waited more than two months for the provincial government's dental corporation to make a decision on a $12,000 claim for procedures, as she continues to deal with an excruciatingly painful toothache.
A Ukrainian mother and newcomer to Alberta has waited more than two months for the provincial government's dental corporation to make a decision on a $12,000 claim for procedures, as she continues to deal with an excruciatingly painful toothache.
Tetiana Kliuchishcheva evacuated from Ukraine amid the Russian invasion and arrived in Calgary nearly a year ago.
The 30-year-old single parent has been working to support her young son, which means some expenses, like dental care, have to be prioritized.
"I'm a single mom, I live alone and I cannot pay for this procedure myself. I need to pay for rent, I need to pay for my program after school and also I need to buy groceries," she said.
On Nov. 9, Kliuchishcheva couldn't take the pain any longer and sought treatment at Calgary's White Oak Dental Clinic, which submitted a request for the filling of multiple root canals and the installation of a crown on a separate tooth.
Kliuchishcheva received x-rays and was diagnosed with a severe toothache, swelling, reddening of the gums and an infection. Work needed to repair the damage would require four claims submitted to insurance totalling $12,247.
Kliuchishcheva, who qualifies for dental care under the Alberta Health Benefits' Ukrainian Evacuees Program, submitted the claims to the Alberta Dental Service Corporation (ADSC), which is the provincial body who reviews it.
