An unused dental chair at the Cuyahoga County Juvenile Detention Center sat wrapped in plastic for over a decade, serving as a reminder of untapped potential to improve health care for youth housed there. That changed in October 2023, when the center launched its first dental clinic, transforming the chair into a tool for vital oral health care.
The Beginning of a Partnership
Celeste Wainwright, assistant superintendent of the detention center, recalls how the chair became a symbol of possibility. “For years, we’d give tours of the detention center, and I’d point out the unused dental chair, joking that it was just sitting there.” Eventually, a chance conversation on one of these tours led to a transformative partnership with MedWish MedWorks, a nonprofit organization focused on providing free healthcare to underserved populations.
The partnership, which started with this simple connection, led to the opening of a clinic that treated over 75 youth at the detention center in its inaugural session. These youth, many of whom had long-neglected dental needs, received a range of services, including emergency procedures and general oral health exams.
Breaking Down Barriers to Care
The collaboration between the detention center and MedWish MedWorks was a year-long effort, marked by discussions, planning, and navigating bureaucratic hurdles. “It took many planning meetings and conversations to launch, but it all came together,” says Britta Latz, CEO of MedWish MedWorks.
The clinic not only addressed immediate needs but also highlighted the broader challenges faced by incarcerated youth. For many, dental care had been limited to emergency situations, and they had not received routine check-ups or preventative care. As Latz explains, “Without MedWish MedWorks, the only option for uninsured youth at the detention center is to go to the ER for emergency dental care.”
Specialized care was also available, with procedures such as cosmetic dentistry and treatments for serious dental infections. One child had significant facial swelling due to an abscess, which was promptly addressed. “The kids were eager and responsive to the care, and it was a really positive experience for everyone involved,” says Latz.
Impact on Youth and Staff
The clinic’s success goes beyond just addressing dental issues; it’s about restoring dignity to a group that is often overlooked. Wainwright shares stories from the youth, such as one girl who felt more confident after having her chipped tooth fixed, and another who overcame fear about extractions thanks to the compassionate care provided by the team.
“This partnership is transforming,” Wainwright says, emphasizing the convenience and effectiveness of having onsite care. “When we send kids out for dental appointments, it requires two staff members, creates safety risks, and disrupts operations. With MedWish MedWorks, it’s like a one-stop shop.”
Looking Ahead: Expansion and Future Plans
The success of the clinic has led to hopes of expanding the program. MedWish MedWorks is working on partnerships with dental residency programs and local community colleges to bring in dental hygienists to continue providing care. “They’ll provide care while earning their certification. It’s a win-win for everyone,” says Wainwright.
This initiative represents just one piece of MedWish MedWorks’ broader mission. Latz notes that they focus on dental care, primary care, vision care, and specialty services, aiming to create comprehensive “one-stop-shop” experiences for underserved communities.
For both Wainwright and Latz, the clinic is a crucial part of meeting the long-term needs of the youth at the detention center. Wainwright sums it up perfectly: “I always say, if these were our own kids, we’d want them to have this level of care. Treating them with dignity and meeting their needs is important, just like we would for anyone else.”
This collaboration highlights the power of partnerships in improving health outcomes and restoring dignity to vulnerable populations. With continued efforts, the clinic’s impact could be felt for years to come.
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