Johnson County Public Health’s I-Smile Program recently partnered with Kimball and Beecher Family Dentistry to host the “Give Kids a Smile” event in Iowa City. This initiative provided free dental care to children in need, addressing a significant gap in dental services for families relying on Medicaid.
Background on Dental Care Challenges
In Iowa, the number of dentists accepting Medicaid has significantly decreased over the years. A University of Iowa study found that in 1992, 62% of Iowa dentists accepted all new Medicaid patients, but by 2013, this number had dropped to just 16%. This decline has left many families struggling to find dental providers who accept Medicaid.
The Event
On February 21, the “Give Kids a Smile” event was held at Kimball and Beecher Family Dentistry in Iowa City. Approximately 70 children received dental care services, including oral exams, cleanings, and fillings, all within a span of four hours. I-Smile Coordinator Becky Hackett-Leas expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, hoping it would become a recurring event and expand to more dental offices.
Importance of Dental Health
Brooke Ullom, Clinic Coordinator at Kimball and Beecher, emphasized the importance of preventive dental care and education. “It all starts in prevention. Every cavity can be prevented,” she noted. Education plays a crucial role in promoting dental health, especially for those who may lack access to such information.
Challenges in Accessing Dental Care
Hackett-Leas highlighted several barriers to dental care, including unreliable transportation, low income, and the overwhelming demand on dental providers. Even the University of Iowa College of Dentistry faces challenges in meeting the high demand for appointments.
Medicaid Coverage Issues
Johnson County Public Health Director Danielle Pettit Majewski discussed the broader issue of Medicaid coverage. While Iowa is one of only 13 states with dental coverage included in Medicaid, many providers decline Medicaid patients due to low reimbursement rates. This means having Medicaid coverage does not guarantee access to dental care.
