The impetus for this program arose from the compelling data indicating that adequate oral care among the elderly is a major concern. Medicare and nearly all supplemental insurance plans do not cover oral health costs. Due to cost, many older persons often forgo routine oral examinations, professional cleanings and dental care. The Bristol-Burlington Health District partnered with the Bristol Department of Aging Services to establish the Bristol Dental Program for the Elderly. Grant funding was obtained through the North Central Area Agency on Aging to initiate and provide this program for the elderly. The program provides a visual oral examination and dental cleaning performed by a registered dental hygienist. Clients contribute $20.00 for the service if they are financially able. If the screening indicates a dental problem, the client is referred to his own dentist or a participating dentist. Participating dentists have agreed to discount their fees based on a sliding scale according to income. In the program's first year of operation, with the clinic open only one day a week, 132 clients were served with 34% of the clients being frail elderly. The program has recently expanded services to provide screening and cleaning to clients every six months. The program has been well accepted and supported by the local oral health care providers, some of whom serve on the advisory committee. Local organizations in the community have been supportive in providing transportation, donations to help defray the cost of supplies and volunteers to help as receptionists.
Learning Objectives: 1. To describe the steps taken to initiate a community partnership. 2. To identify creative opportunities to promote and provide oral health services to both frail and uninsured elderly. 3. To describe a way to cooperate with private providers without being threatening
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.