#United States #Oakland #Dental Innovation #Harmony Oral Health #Oakland CA

Harmony Whole Person Oral Healthcare Launches Integrated Oral Health Facility

In an exciting development for community health, Harmony Whole Person Oral Healthcare has opened a new clinic in the heart of downtown Oakland. This facility aims to redefine dental care by merging advanced dentistry with whole-person wellness, providing a new model for health services that addresses the comprehensive needs of patients.

Located at 1333 Broadway, the new clinic is equipped with 43 dental chairs and is designed to utilize routine dental visits as a platform for broader health screenings. Recognizing the interconnection between oral health and overall well-being, Harmony promotes regular check-ups as a means to identify systemic health conditions. The clinic is set to accept a wide range of insurance plans, including Medicare, with Medi-Cal coverage anticipated in the near future.

A Comprehensive Approach to Health

Dr. Greg Kaplan, the clinic's Clinical Director, emphasizes the importance of holistic health care, stating, "The mouth is one of the most powerful diagnostic tools in health care." At Harmony, the aim is to break down barriers between dental care and general health, fostering an environment where patients can receive a more equitable and integrated approach to healthcare.

The clinic also functions as a research hub for advanced dental technology, allowing it to evaluate and implement innovative practices that enhance patient outcomes. This model underscores the importance of early intervention for various health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and oral cancer through coordinated care with other health providers.

Harmony's commitment to community health extends beyond patient care. The clinic actively collaborates with local dental offices to support professional development and create referral systems that ensure patients receive comprehensive services tailored to their needs. Jim Wunderman, CEO of the Bay Area Council, expressed enthusiasm for the launch, noting it as a key step toward revitalizing downtown by providing vital dental care services.

Building a Health-Focused Community

The establishment of Harmony Whole Person Oral Healthcare marks a significant investment in the community. This facility not only fills critical gaps in localized healthcare but also generates new employment opportunities, thereby enriching the local economy. Delta Dental of California is partnering with Harmony, offering technology integration support that enhances the clinic's capabilities and ensures its long-term sustainability.

Using cutting-edge electronic health records systems, Harmony facilitates efficient communication and care coordination between dental and medical professionals. This interoperability allows for timely referrals and the ability to share patient information securely, which is crucial for proactive healthcare management. Corey Elfman, an Implementation Executive at Epic, remarked on the efficiency of their systems, highlighting that 25 million patient records are exchanged daily, fostering seamless communication across healthcare facilities.

A Vision for the Future of Oral Health

Dr. Kaplan further elaborates on Harmony's mission, stating, "Every point of contact, from scheduling appointments to treatment, is personalized and focused on empowering the patient." This patient-centric approach seeks to redefine the dental experience, making it easier, more engaging, and ultimately part of a comprehensive health strategy.

The grand opening of the Harmony clinic signifies a transformative step in how dental care is perceived and delivered. By utilizing the dental chair as a strategic entry point for broader health assessments, Harmony not only enhances patient care but also provides a model that other clinics might aspire to replicate. As a beacon of integrated health services in Oakland, Harmony Whole Person Oral Healthcare is set to inspire a new way of thinking about dental and overall health, ensuring that community needs are met through innovation and compassion.