PDS Health's Impactful Smile Generation Serve Day
PDS Health, a prominent leader in integrated healthcare support, recently celebrated its 15th annual Smile Generation Serve Day, a nationwide event aimed at enhancing access to both dental and primary care services for underserved communities. This year's initiative not only focused on providing crucial healthcare services but also emphasized the importance of the Mouth-Body Connection® in maintaining overall health.
More than 12,000 PDS Health team members participated in this impactful event, delivering essential healthcare and contributing thousands of hours towards local community services. The collaborative effort showcased the potential for positive change when groups unite for a common cause.
The critical integration of dental and medical services was evident, as many PDS Health practices offered combined services during the event. This approach highlights the significance of addressing patients' health needs holistically, reinforcing the relationship between oral health and general well-being. Over 72 million Americans face obstacles in obtaining dental care, primarily due to high costs or lack of insurance. Smile Generation Serve Day aims to alleviate these challenges, providing both immediate care and potentially reducing long-term healthcare expenses.
This year's event boasted an impressive record, with over $20 million in healthcare services donated and more than 74,000 hours of volunteer service logged nationally. In California alone, approximately 1,600 patients benefited from $6.2 million in care, while Texas saw 870 patients receiving $3.7 million in services. Additionally, the teams engaged in various community efforts including food distribution, park restoration, and blood drives, exemplifying PDS Health's commitment to community well-being.
Since its inception in 2011, Smile Generation Serve Day has donated upwards of $94 million in care to around 37,000 patients alongside countless hours dedicated to community service. The initiative's consistent growth reflects how integrated care can drive significant improvements in health outcomes.
Stephen E. Thorne IV, the Founder and CEO of PDS Health, remarked, "Year after year, we witness the profound impact that Smile Generation Serve Day has on the communities we service, the patients we support, and the volunteers who dedicate their time. Serving not only enhances health but also enriches our spirit and inspires us to pursue healthier, interconnected communities.”
In Arizona, where the event was notably significant, dental practitioners emphasized the extent of community involvement. Dr. Jana Kubicek, a participating dentist, articulated the event’s essence by stating how much can be accomplished when people come together with a shared purpose.
Patients for the program were referred through PDS Health practices and various non-profit organizations like Hire Heroes USA and Dental Lifeline Network, ensuring essential services reach those who otherwise lack access. This includes veterans and families situated in underserved areas, underlining PDS Health's commitment to equitable healthcare initiatives.
By continuing to support transformative initiatives like Smile Generation Serve Day, PDS Health stands at the forefront of advancing integrated care delivery. The event is a testament to the positive outcomes possible through collaboration between healthcare providers and communities, working in unison towards the goal of healthier, happier patients.
To learn more about PDS Health and their initiatives, please visit
pdshealth.com.
About PDS Health
PDS Health, rooted in Pacific Dental Services’ vision established in 1994, aims to transform the healthcare landscape by integrating dental and medical services. Their commitment to the connection between oral and overall health seeks to cultivate healthier patients while setting new standards in the healthcare sector. As a leading healthcare support provider, PDS Health delivers a wide array of services designed to enhance operational capabilities for healthcare professionals across the United States.
About Smile Generation
Smile Generation connects individuals to a network of trusted dental professionals dedicated to delivering exceptional patient experiences and state-of-the-art clinical care. It champions financial alternatives for patients and emphasizes the connection between oral and overall health through The Mouth-Body Connection®. With over 1,000 dental offices across 24 states, the Smile Generation network is bolstered by the support of PDS Health.