Since 1990, the Saipan Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Clinic has been a beacon of hope for residents of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) through its annual health fair offering free dental services. Known affectionately as the “Clinic with a Heart,” this program has made a profound impact over the past 34 years, particularly for adults without insurance.
Every Memorial Day weekend, individuals aged 19 and older gather eagerly under the tent set up outside the SDA Clinic in Saipan, awaiting the 7:30am opening of its doors. Their sole objective: to benefit from the complimentary dental services offered to those who lack insurance coverage.
The dedication of patients was evident on May 26, 2024, with many, like Marites Calica, arriving well before dawn to secure their place in line. “I want to make sure I get a guaranteed slot,” remarked Calica, reflecting the determination of those seeking essential dental care.
This year’s services included extractions, fillings, prophylaxis (dental cleaning), limited x-rays, oral exams with cancer screenings, and dental kits. A total of fifty-six patients received treatment, with additional support provided to individuals with elevated blood pressure through personalized stress management guidance and prayers.
For longtime patient Levita Manansala, who has relied on the SDA Clinic’s services for several decades without dental insurance, the impact is deeply personal. “The clinic helps me maintain dental hygiene without financial burden,” she shared, her gratitude evident in her smile. Another mother, who preferred not to disclose her name, echoed similar sentiments, expressing appreciation for the clinic’s care of her children’s dental health needs, despite her own lack of insurance coverage.
Registered dental hygienist Sharon Long highlighted the fulfillment derived from serving patients who otherwise lack access to dental care. “Our free dental program at the SDA Clinic addresses critical needs, alleviating pain and reducing stress for our patients,” Long affirmed. “By promoting clean and healthy smiles, we potentially influence their financial futures, boosting self-confidence that could lead to improved job prospects or career advancements.”
Volunteers, including dental professionals and students from Marianas High School, also played a crucial role in the day’s success. Dr. Oh Ock Kwon, a general dentist at the clinic, described the experience as precious and fulfilling, emphasizing a desire to extend assistance to more individuals in need. Student volunteers like John Song echoed these sentiments, reflecting on the meaningful impact of their service and expressing a desire to continue contributing in the future.
Despite the high turnout on that Sunday, where approximately 80 individuals patiently waited in line, no one left empty-handed. Each attendee received an oral hygiene kit, a clinic pen, and refreshments, underscoring the clinic’s commitment to community wellness.
The Saipan SDA Clinic hosts similar events twice annually: “Give Kids a Smile” for children in February and “Clinic with a Heart” for adults in May. These initiatives extend beyond Saipan to Tinian and Rota annually, reinforcing the clinic’s mission to provide outstanding dental care, health education, and community outreach programs, thereby embodying the healing ministry of Christ in the CNMI.
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