#United States #New York #dental care #DentaQuest #Healthfirst Foundation

DentaQuest Steps Up to Support Dental Care in Underserved Communities

In an impactful move toward enhancing dental care access for underserved populations, DentaQuest, a part of Sun Life U.S., has made a significant donation of $100,000 to the Healthfirst Foundation. This philanthropic initiative is designed to support low-income children and older adults across New York.

DentaQuest's contribution underscores a shared commitment to improving oral health for vulnerable communities. The funds from this generous donation are being strategically allocated as grants to esteemed dental educational institutions and professional associations. This initiative is poised to deliver vital support where it is most needed, marking an important step in bridging the gap in dental health access.

The Impact of the Contribution

According to DentaQuest, the donation will assist in various community-focused programs spearheaded by six regional dental associations, including the Suffolk, Nassau, Queens, New York County, Bronx, and Ninth District Dental Associations. These associations are planning essential initiatives such as back-to-school events, pediatric education programs, and the renowned Give Kids a Smile® program, which focuses on providing free dental care to children in need.

Moreover, prestigious institutions like New York University College of Dentistry and Stony Brook University School of Dental Medicine will benefit from DentaQuest’s contribution. NYU College of Dentistry is set to enhance its outreach efforts towards underserved populations through comprehensive dental community outreach. Meanwhile, Stony Brook University will gain funding to upgrade their mobile dental care unit, which aims to reach both children and adults in need within underserved communities.

Commitment to Lifelong Oral Health

David Healy, president of Sun Life U.S., emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, "We’re proud to be among the first corporate partners supporting the Healthfirst Foundation. As the largest provider of Medicaid and CHIP dental benefits in the U.S., we recognize that preventive care saves lives and reduces future health complications. This partnership allows us to reinforce the importance of lifelong oral healthcare access with direct community impact." Healy's statement reflects the organization's dedication to proactive healthcare measures that can significantly improve community health outcomes.

In alignment with DentaQuest’s mission of enhancing dental health for everyone, this philanthropic collaboration aims to provide preventive screenings, oral exams, cleanings, and patient education. Such initiatives are crucial in establishing sustainable pathways for ongoing dental care in communities where it is needed the most.

Errol Pierre, a board member of the Healthfirst Foundation, acknowledged the benefits of this donation, stating, "This contribution from DentaQuest will directly expand access to preventive and community-based dental care across downstate New York. By supporting dental schools and local associations, we are helping bring care closer to where people live, learn, and work."

The Healthfirst Foundation is dedicated to promoting health and social service programs throughout New York City and its surrounding areas. Recognized as the largest not-for-profit health insurer in downstate New York, Healthfirst established the foundation to further its mission of making healthcare not only easier to navigate but also more accessible to those in need.

The Legacy of Support

DentaQuest’s long-standing relationship with Healthfirst spans over two decades, during which it has administered dental benefits for various plans, including Medicaid and Medicare Advantage programs. This partnership is a testament to DentaQuest's ongoing commitment to improving oral health outcomes in New York and beyond.

As the largest Medicaid and CHIP dental benefits administrator by membership in the U.S., DentaQuest continues to build on its legacy of partnering with organizations focused on making healthcare accessible. Through its various initiatives and collaborations, including this recent donation to the Healthfirst Foundation, DentaQuest is clearly dedicated to fostering healthier communities where everyone can thrive.

For more information about DentaQuest and its programs, visit DentaQuest's website. For media inquiries, please contact Farrah Phillipo at Sun Life U.S./DentaQuest or Barbara Montresor at Healthfirst Foundation.