Anchorage Dental Community Provides Free Care While Worrying About Impact of Medicaid Cuts
A Community Dental Day in Anchorage brought together private practice volunteers and a statewide nonprofit to deliver free extractions, dentures, and preventive services to uninsured patients. With significant cuts to Medicaid, partnerships like this are becoming increasingly vital for underserved Alaskans.
In Anchorage, Alaska, the growing need for affordable oral healthcare was met with compassion during a recent Community Dental Day, where local providers donated time and expertise to treat approximately 35 uninsured patients. Services ranged from extractions and fillings to dentures, periodontal therapy, and preventive care.
The event was organized by Libby Dental Group in partnership with Anchorage Project Access, a nonprofit that connects qualifying patients with volunteer providers across the state. Anchorage Project Access supports more than 825 dental, medical, and behavioral health professionals who contribute services to patients who otherwise lack access to care. The organization reports that demand has doubled over the past year, and with anticipated cuts to Medicaid, patient volume is expected to climb even higher. The organization is seeking additional providers to join its volunteer efforts.
For many individuals, these events are life changing. Patients who have gone years without necessary dental treatment often face pain, broken appliances, and functional limitations that affect both health and quality of life. Restorative services, such as dentures, not only improve oral function but also restore dignity and confidence. Click here to read more.
