Doorstep Healthcare Offers Mobile Dental Services
A Golden Valley-based nonprofit is expanding its dental services by putting it on wheels. Doorstep Healthcare Services began offering on-site mobile dental services this year.
For nearly four decades, Doorstep has brought oral services to residents inside facilities like assisted living and addiction recovery. But with the RV, the nonprofit won’t have to rely solely on facilities for services.
“We really are focused on people who are under-served and finding ways to meet that need. We’re working with organizations who value that,” explained Mark Meyers, director of operations for Doorstep Healthcare.
The mobile dental services can house two patients at one time. Meyers said it has been set up regularly at St. Francis Medical Center in Scott County.
However, due to COVID-19, Doorstep has seen a reduction in patients. They typically see about 150 patients a week, now they see about 30.
Meyers hopes to see more people who need the care including vulnerable adults and those with transportation barriers. The healthcare provider also hopes to reach schools because there are thousands with income barriers.
“There’s a lot of kids that you’ll see in school maybe they’re 17, they’re a senior and they have never seen a dentist,” said Meyers.
Down the road, Doorstep Healthcare hope stop expand the mobile dental services not only for everyone, but especially those who are under-served.
“Studies have shown that poor oral health can lead to so many conditions or affects those conditions. So, it’s really important,” said Meyers.
In addition to dental, the nonprofit offers mental and behavioral health services through telehealth.
