Buhl Regional Health Foundation launches new no-cost dental care program
HERMITAGE, Pa. - The Buhl Regional Health Foundation (BRHF) hosted an open house to celebrate the launch of a new no-cost dental care program for Mercer County, Pennsylvania.
The open house was held at the clinic's new location, found at 3041 Innovation Way, Hermitage.
The no-cost dental care program is named the Community Dental Clinic.
According to a news release, the clinic opened its doors on January 15.
In its first 39 days of operation, the Community Dental Clinic served 238 patients with the help of nine dental professionals, delivering over $128,000 in services with no cost to the patients.
"The response to this clinic has been overwhelming," said Kateri Linn, Director of Programming for BRHF.
Linn continued," This isn't just about filling cavities - it's about restoring dignity, health and confidence."
The clinic is a collaboration between BRHF and Dr. John Clemenza of Keystone-OMS, whose office was renovated to house the facility.
According to the release, the aim of the clinic is to improve the oral health of the Mercer County community by addressing health disparities and inequities in dental treatment and education.
Patients seeking treatment must reside in Mercer County and be referred by a qualified organization. Medicaid coverage is required, but some exceptions could be made in special circumstances.
According to a spokesperson from BRHF, qualified organizations include Primary Health Network and Link the Valley.
Routine exams, root canals and impacted wisdom teeth extractions are not provided, but the clinic does offer a range of urgent and essential dental procedures on a case-by-case basis, according to the release.
The spokesperson from BRHF told 21 News that the clinic operates on a by-appointment and referral-based model. Clinic hours vary depending on dental professional availability.
Providers looking to submit a referral or patients looking to schedule an appointment can find more information on the BRHF Community Dental Clinic website.
