From the Harford County Health Department:
In response to the enormous need for dental care among the homeless community, the Harford County Health Department Dental Clinic and dental implants manchester uk held a homeless dental clinic on Saturday, March 12, 2016 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at its facility in Edgewood, MD. The program expanded upon a larger initiative that took place previously at the Epicenter in Edgewood, Maryland.
That January 28th event, called “Project Homeless Connect” offered lunch and free transportation to and from five checkpoints around the County as well as free pick-up and return trips upon request. The occasion provided access to Harford’s local homeless and at-risk populations to more than 50 informational resources and services and attracted more than 400 participants to the day-long event. Giveaways included groceries, winter clothing, energy assistance, cell phones and more.
Eighty (80) individuals who were there requested dental extractions or implant crowns but due to time constraints, only about half of them received care that day. In order to attend to those among the remaining 40, the Harford County Health Department and the United Way of Central Maryland (the lead on Project Homeless Connect) partnered to coordinate a separate event on Saturday, March 12th. Representatives of both organizations helped staff the event that included dentists and dental assistants, a medical transportation coordinator, clerical and administrative personnel.
“Patients received dental exams, dental x-rays, and a great many extractions were performed to treat the extensive decay and considerable pain experienced by most participants”, remarked HC Director of Administration and Dental Clinic Manager Marcy Austin, “But, above all, they were all extremely grateful as was reflected in their many hugs and handshakes.”
The collaborative efforts of the Harford County Health Department and the United Way of Central Maryland show just how powerful community partnerships can be in addressing the critical need for affordable dental care. Many of the individuals who sought care at the event were dealing with significant dental issues, including painful decay and missing teeth, which had left them struggling with daily discomfort.
By offering free services like exams, extractions, and x-rays, this event was not only about relieving physical pain but also restoring dignity to those who had long been without proper dental care. It’s a reminder of the importance of making dental services accessible to all, especially for those facing economic hardship.
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Harford County Health Officer Susan Kelly states, “Homeless persons face significant barriers to the most basic health needs, such as nutrition, safety, and shelter, while barriers to meeting additional health needs, such as those requiring health services are even greater. While seeking economic solutions for our country, we cannot forget our most vulnerable citizens.”
The Health Department’s Dental Clinic, located at 2204 Hanson Road in the Edgewood Plaza Shopping Center in Edgewood, provides dental care to children ages 1 – 20 who are enrolled in the Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP) and to pregnant women on MCHP.
More information about the Harford County Health Department Dental Clinic’s services is available at www.harfordcountyhealth.com or by calling 443-922-7670. Those interested in additional information on homeless resources can contact Kristle Fullerton, LCSW-C at the Harford County Health Department at 410-638-3060
There is a larger segment of the population in dire need of dental care. Seniors. Living on a fixed income with dental care a low priority for seniors is a real health concern. For many seniors the choice is simple, a dental appointment cost or the necessary prescriptions cost? The Health Department of Harford County is not providing a service to these seniors with the absence of affordable, quality, accessible dental care. Baltimore County’s Health Department has been providing dental care based on income to seniors for years.
It is difficult for me to believe that there isn’t outrage toward the lack of affordable dental care for many residents of our county. It is not a new problem and I recall several decades ago when patients came to the ER seeking care for serious infections caused by lack of dental care.Some required hospital admission for IV antibiotic treatment. Apparently the problem continues. I do not know of any programs in Harford County which regularly offers affordable treatment to people who are uninsured or living on limited incomes. I once worked in an all volunteer program specifically designed to help this type of client. It was staffed by volunteer medical and dental providers who donated a few hours a month to provide care. I wonder if a similar program is possible in Harford County. I’d be willing to help.