The only way to get the entire dental profession involved was to make the care comprehensive. Our target population was the group not covered under public financing mechanisms. We wanted to reach those that fall between the cracks, such as uninsured, low income, working families. We copied what they used because it was successful for them. The clinic is open 44 hours a week.
Volunteers extend the hours of the clinic and complement the staff.
The hours also give a selection of volunteer opportunities outside regular private practice hours. When a prospective patient calls or visits the clinic, they are pre-screened with a preliminary set of questions to see if they may qualify. They are then asked to fill out an application. The applications are closely reviewed on an individual basis. In order for eligibility to be established, income must be verified by providing a current tax return, or in some cases, a W2 or pay stub.