New dentistry program coming
GRANT COUNTY — The Grant County Health District is establishing an Access to Baby and Child Dentistry (ABCD) program in Grant County.
ABCD focuses on early prevention services and oral health education to low-income families. It is for infants to 5-year-olds.
“We are constantly working to improve health care services for children,” stated administrator Peggy Grigg. “By educating families on the importance of oral health and increasing provider capacity, we are making strides in ensuring children have access to comprehensive services so they may live healthy and productive lives.”
The health district is able to produce the program because of a $43,325 grant given by the Washington Dental Service Foundation.
Grant County joins 31 of Washington’s 39 counties in establishing an ABCD program. The program is a partnership of the Health District, Grant County Dental Society, Grant County Oral Health Coalition, Family Services of Grant County, local dental and medical providers, the state Medicaid Program, Department of Health, University of Washington and Washington Dental Service Foundation (WDSF).
WDSF provides startup grants during the first three years of program operation. The health department and Medicaid matching funds cover the balance of the program’s budget.
The University Of Washington School Of Dentistry has named Moses Lake dentist Dr. Craig Harder, of Moses Lake Family Dentistry, as the new Grant County ABCD Dental Champion.
Public health nurse Wendy Brzezny is the ABCD program coordinator for the health district and public health associate Ariana Chavez is the ABCD outreach worker.
“Dentists have shown tremendous support for this program,” Craig stated. “We have a successful formula and partnership in place to support and sustain this program. The involvement of the Health District and community partners will help us raise the standard of care for all children in our community.”
About one-third of Grant County dentists signed up to participate in the ABCD Program.
The initial ABCD Certification Training for Grant County dentists and staff occurs Oct. 23.
For more information on ABCD, go online and visit www.abcd-dental.org, or call 509-766-7960.