Dentist volunteers find IHS experience rewarding

The ADA struck collaborative agreements with nine Indian Health Service/tribal clinics in Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota in response to a 2006 policy directive from the House of Delegates to improve access to oral health care for American Indians and Alaska Natives.

Some 25 private practice and retired dentists and dental students have volunteered over the 18 month period, said Gary D. Podschun, ADA community outreach and cultural competence manager.

“Dentists who have volunteered have served for at least two weeks at a time and found the experience fulfilling and rewarding,” the Association told Congress in March 13 testimony. “This is an excellent opportunity to improve access to care for AI/AN communities and increase awareness among the dental profession about the tremendous oral health disparities among Native people.”

The Association this year will expand the program to support dental student externships. The ADA Council on Access, Prevention and Interprofessional Relations will support externship activities at the White Earth Health Care Center in Ogema, Minn., Mr. Podschun said. Additionally, the Hopi Health Care Center in Arizona was added this year as a volunteer placement site.聽