New York (WBNG) – The New York State Department of Health announced $10 million will go towards enhancing dental care services at school-based health centers, according to information from Governor Kathy Hochul.
Alongside an ongoing commitment to increase access to preventative health care services to children, the funding will focus on improving oral health outcomes from children statewide.
Funding will be distributed to 33 school-based health centers in New York for over five years.
“Our administration’s children’s health agenda is about ensuring that our youngest and most vulnerable have access to the care they need,” Governor Hochul said. “With this investment, we are meeting children where they are to provide dental services and set them on the path for a healthy life.”
Specifically, the funding will:
Support dental service deliveryOffset costs that are not covered by insuranceCover staffing costs such as dental hygienist salariesFund the purchase of equipment and supplies necessary for dental operationsExpand service capacity and reduce cost barriers in underserved communitiesFoster health equity by improving access for students in low-resource settings.
The initiative stems from Governor Hochul’s 2024 State of the State and supports the broader Children’s Health Agenda.
Dental services, such as screenings, sealants, and treatments, will be delivered in schools by mobile dental clinics and setups in set locations.
To ensure accountability and transparency, grant partners who accept the funds will be required to show the state:
Reports on service delivery metrics, including those tied to dental service expansionDocumentation related to program impact, reach, and operational outputsObservation and sharing of outcomes related to sealants, screenings, and treatments delivered due to funding.
“Access to quality dental care is essential to a child’s overall health and development,” said Assemblymember Amy Paulin. “I applaud Governor Hochul for investing in dental care at school-based health centers, which are a lifeline for children in low-income and underserved communities.”
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