Rural Health
News by Topic: Dental workforce
Jul 23, 2024 - Describes findings of a new report from the Alaska Division of Public Health showing improvements in dental health among children 3 and younger across various metrics. Identifies possible factors contributing to the positive trends, including Medicaid expansion and the expansion of the Dental Health Aide Therapist program. Discusses ongoing rural dental health disparities and recommendations for improvement.
Source: Alaska Beacon
Jul 17, 2024 - Describes the role of dental therapists, a provider type licensed to provide basic preventative care under the supervision of a dentist, in expanding oral healthcare access in rural and underserved communities. Highlights the work of dental therapists in tribal communities in Alaska and Washington, where oral health needs are significant and dentists are in short supply.
Source: Stateline
Jul 9, 2024 - Northern Michigan University in Marquette will study the feasibility of developing and sustaining a dental hygiene education program to meet workforce needs and enhance oral health services for residents of the Upper Peninsula. The study will be funded by a $71,500 grant from the Delta Dental Foundation.
Source: Radio Results Network
May 31, 2024 - Highlights a new federally-funded initiative designed to address dental workforce shortages in Maryland, affecting primarily low-income and rural areas. Outlines rural-related barriers to oral healthcare including lack of transportation to appointments.
Source: Maryland Matters