Twenty six people had an extra reason to smile last Friday, thanks to Queensland Country’s Dental Rescue Day, which provided a full day of pro bono dental treatment for vulnerable community members.
Queensland Country Dental dedicated the day’s appointments to providing vital dental care for patients nominated across six community groups, including Centacare, Red Cross, Yumba Meta Housing Support and St Vincent De Paul’s Men’s Hostel, Maria House and Youth Outreach Support.
Queensland Country Health Fund Executive Manager, Glenn Seri, says they were pleased to support Dental Rescue Day, an initiative of the Australian Dental Health Foundation to support disadvantaged Australians to receive dental treatment they otherwise wouldn’t be able to access through the coordination of pro bono dental treatment with local providers.
“Good oral health is the key to overall wellbeing, so it is vital people get can access the necessary dental support and treatment,” explained Mr Seri.
“Many of the patients have chronic or complex health needs which prevent them from accessing mainstream dental services, so the Dental Rescue Day will provide anything from a check-up and relief of pain and discomfort to extractions and fillings.
“Queensland Country Dental previously held a Dental Rescue Day last year for half a day which was a huge success, so we are really looking forward to being able to extend that further and provide a full day of free dental services for community members who need it most.”
Patients were seen by five dentists and two hygienists who, alongside 17 other Queensland Country staff, volunteered their time to assist through Queensland Country’s Community Volunteer Program.
“It is thanks to our Community Volunteer Program, which encourages staff to take up to two days of paid leave per year to volunteer in the community, that we are able to run the Dental Rescue Day today and make a meaningful contribution,” says Mr Seri.
“Being a member-owned organisation who puts people ahead of profits means that we are able to close the clinic for the day to assist community members who are in need of our support.
“We’re looking forward to seeing the new smiles that walk out of the clinic today and helping them live better lives through quality health care.”
To view the recent Channel 7 Townsville news story click here -> https://fb.watch/bCiceUG9EW/