The Dental Department at SMMC, under the supervision of Dr. Ann Marie Silvestri, submitted a proposal to PCF for this transportation project involving patients from SMMC. On November 30, 2004, Dr. Silvestri was notified that the proposal had been favorably reviewed and that the award would be granted. The County of San Mateo will receive $40,000.00 for the period December 1, 2004 through November 30, 2005, along with the ability to submit for continued funding for the years 2006 and 2007.
The primary purpose is to implement a method for low-income patients to receive dental care. Providers for low cost service are very limited in the County of San Mateo. Due to their poor dental condition, patients are placed at an increased risk for diabetes and heart related disorders. These patients often experience increased pain and infection, and their ability to eat is hindered and digestive issues become a health factor.
SMMC proposes to increase the access to dental care by providing a dental program whereby care can be arranged. Patients are now being sent for a screening Panorex and then scheduled for a limited visual exam. During this exam, initial dental concerns are addressed. Patients are then referred for extractions at SMMC or scheduled at Pacific for either Full Mouth x-rays or Oral Diagnosis and Treatment Planning. Future plans include SMMC becoming an “Off-Site” campus of Pacific.
Patients needing Full Dentures will be scheduled at SMMC. The collaboration of SMMC and Pacific will bring increased dental health to the patients of the County of San Mateo, while enhancing the experience of Pacific students. Working with low income and at risk patients will give future dentists the insight to community needs.
The resolution will allow the County to accept the grant award and appropriate the funds that will pay the salary of an extra-help office assistant, provide the transportation to Pacific from SMMC, cover the cost of Full Mouth X-rays and Comprehensive exams for 200 uninsured patients, and any other administrative expenses.
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