DLN • Alabama Celebrates $5 Million Milestone

The Alabama legislature recognized Dental Lifeline Network • Alabama through House Joint Resolution 64, acknowledging the hundreds of volunteer dentists and laboratories who have donated $5 million in comprehensive dental care through the Donated Dental Services (DDS) program. Governor Robert Bentley also proclaimed March 8, 2017 as DDS Recognition Day in the State of Alabama. Volunteers in the DDS program, exceeded $5 million in donated comprehensive dental treatment contributed by dentists and laboratories to people with disabilities or who are elderly or medically fragile and cannot afford dental care. DLN • Alabama was founded in 1998 in partnership with the Alabama Dental Association, and receives support from the Alabama Medicaid Agency.

“DDS is my way of giving back and helping those who have no other options,” said Dr. Michael Robinson, DLN • AL leadership council co-chair and active DDS volunteer. He has been involved in the DDS program since it started. “It is a way of bridging access to care for disabled patients with limited resources. Our DDS program in Alabama speaks of the heartfelt kindness of our volunteer colleagues and reflects well on our profession. You only have to treat one patient and you will experience the feel-good nature of this program.”

More than 250 volunteer dentists, including specialists, and 75 dental laboratories volunteer time and resources and served over 2,000 people since the program launched. According to the American Dental Association, over half of vulnerable elderly patients do not have dental insurance coverage. This collaboration is one more way to assist older Alabamans with critical dental care, which is crucial to maintaining overall health

“Alabama DDS is successful because of the wonderful dentists who donate their time and services to improve the lives of people suffering daily from severe dental problems and cannot afford care,” said Dr. Zack Studstill, Executive Director, Alabama Dental Association. “We actively encourage our member dentists to volunteer.”

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