Children in historically marginalized communities are twice as likely to get cavities as those from higher income families. Community leaders told us families in rural and underserved areas often don’t have transportation, funds, or insurance. Dentists said reimbursement rates were so low and scheduling was so difficult that they limited the number of low-income patients they saw. The government didn’t have the funds or the staff to assist.
Since these children couldn’t get to the dentist, we brought dentists to them with the Smilemobile. It’s easier for dentists, who volunteer at the 3-chair mobile dental office when it’s in their communities. Community organizations already have trusting relationships with families, provide transportation and in-culture and in-language support. Funding comes from the Acora Foundation, supplemented by Medicaid and health insurance, if the family is eligible.
Our role: We led a national best practices survey and developed the strategy in partnership with communities, dentists, insurance companies, foundations and government.
Team: Sarah Lee