OUR PARTNER
At CHIP of the Roanoke Valley, we believe that every smile matters! Thanks to the generous support of the Delta Dental of Virginia Foundation, we are thrilled to announce our Dental Clinic Days, a vital initiative aimed at enhancing oral health for children and adults in our community. Our partnerships with New Horizons Healthcare and the Bradley Free Clinic allow us to provide comprehensive dental care and education to those who need it most.
The importance of oral health cannot be overstated. Frank Lucia, president and CEO of Delta Dental of Virginia, aptly noted, “The work being done by Virginia’s safety net dental clinics is critical to the overall health of the patients served.” With many Virginians facing challenges in accessing dental care, our Dental Clinic Days are designed to bridge that gap. Together, we are making a meaningful impact, ensuring that everyone in our community has access to affordable dental services.
Virginia faces a significant shortage of oral health professionals, with 103 of the 133 localities designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas (HPSA). We understand that oral health is a crucial part of overall well-being, and that’s why we’re committed to expanding access to care. Polly Raible, Executive Director of the Delta Dental of Virginia Foundation, pointed out, “Virginians with the lowest incomes are more than twice as likely to have had an extraction.” Our goal is to combat these trends by providing the necessary resources and support to those who need it most.
One of the highlights of our Dental Clinic Days is the inclusion of a bilingual care coordinator. This dedicated professional plays a vital role in providing oral health education and dental/medical case management for enrolled children and adults. By addressing language and access barriers, we ensure that everyone in our community can receive the care they need. Our commitment to inclusivity means that no one is left behind.
As we look toward 2025, we are excited to enhance our clinic day model with a focus on early intervention. Our upcoming initiative will specifically target the oral health of pregnant mothers enrolled in our home visiting program. By working closely with Bradley Free Clinic, we aim to provide tailored oral health education and dental appointments for these mothers and their families. Our innovative approach will not only improve access to care but also foster healthier futures for both mothers and their children.
Through transportation assistance, coordinated appointments, and monthly clinic days, we’re dedicated to connecting individuals each month to caring providers at our partner locations. Our pilot program will focus on approximately 25% of CHIP’s pregnant moms, ensuring that they receive the early and comprehensive dental care they deserve.
At CHIP of the Roanoke Valley, we are committed to promoting oral health and wellness in our community. With the support of the Delta Dental of Virginia Foundation, New Horizons Healthcare, and the Bradley Free Clinic, we are excited to continue our journey toward a healthier future for all. Together, we are making a difference—one smile at a time!
We invite you to explore our website to learn more about our community partnerships and how you can get involved. Whether you’re a potential partner, donor, or volunteer, your contributions are invaluable in helping us fulfill our mission. Together, we can create a community where every child and family has the opportunity to thrive.
Thank you for your support and commitment to making a difference in the lives of those we serve. At CHIP of the Roanoke Valley, we are proud to stand together, hand in hand, as we work toward a healthier, more equitable future for all.
CHIP of Roanoke is rated a 4-star charity by Charity Navigator.
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