“Otherwise, you don’t know how it’s going to be restored in the future, or what the follow- up care is going to be. I can immediately schedule that patient at FIGHT, or at least do a permanent restoration and know it will hold up until they see their regular provider.” Along with serving a range of mostly at-risk populations, FIGHT has incorporated a therapist to help patients reduce dental anxiety. “We’re now able to increase the standard of care, and the funds will allow us to extend number of patients we can serve,” explains Kari Hexem, DMD MPH, Chief Dental Officer at FIGHT. “There’s a lot of demand. Every patient we see requires endo for at least one tooth.” Dr. Hexem adds that FIGHT has developed a robust algorithm to determine eligibility for their scarce resources. “Which tooth? How old are they? Do they have insurance? Do they have HIV?” she asks. “We prioritize those who are completely unable to afford treatment and demonstrate willingness to commit to treatment.” Even with all the qualifications, Chou volunteering three appointments a week, and four staff providers doing simpler cases, the clinic is scheduled two months out on average.
Philadelphia FIGHT, a Federally Qualified Heath Center (FQHC) founded in 1990 to serve people living with HIV, has now expanded its services to include partners and families of HIV+ patients, the formerly incarcerated, Hep C+ individuals and those recovering from substance abuse.
“ When you compare 2019 and 2021, basically Dr. Chou has doubled our access to endodontic care, especially with regard to molar endo and retreats. ” – Dr. Kari Hexem
45
81
Total Endodontic Treatment (D3310, D3320, D3330, Retreats)
Following her residency at Tufts University, Dr. Tina Chou sought out a volunteer opportunity on returning to Philadelphia, where “we were always involved at various sites around Philadelphia” during dental school at the University of Pennsylvania. Her school contacts brought her to Philadelphia FIGHT, where she appreciates working with a full- time staff and team of providers. “There’s always that continuation of care, so when I’m ready to go in and treat a patient I can ask the dentist about the treatment plan and the prognosis. I like that collaboration,” Chou says.
14
Anterior (D3310)
26
12
Premolar (D3320)
16
19
Molar (D3330)
33
0
Retreats (All)
5
When a power interruption shut down the Philadelphia FIGHT dental clinic, staff set up a temporary operatory in the medical clinic.
2019 2021
FOCUS 2022
5
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