Delivering care and hope across Denver communities
On a sunny morning in Denver, a sleek mobile clinic rolls into the Montbello neighborhood. Its bright colors and welcoming staff signal relief and hope for families in need. The Dental Mobile Health Center is an innovative initiative by Denver Health that is transforming lives by bringing essential dental services directly to the community.
For many newcomers arriving in Denver, the journey to a better life has been long and challenging. One patient, a Venezuelan mother of four, endured a grueling trek through the jungles of Panama to reach the U.S. border. After finally arriving in Colorado, she faced a new struggle: severe tooth pain that made it difficult to care for her children.
Fortunately, a visiting nurse at a shelter recognized her need for dental care and connected her with the Dental Mobile Health Center. A video consultation revealed a severe dental infection. With support from Denver Health Foundation donors, her emergency care was covered. Today, she is pain-free, employed, and living in an apartment with her family. Her children will be enrolled in Denver Public Schools (DPS) this fall, beginning a new chapter filled with opportunity and stability.
Meeting the need for mobile dental care
Denver has experienced a significant influx of newcomers from South and Central America, especially since December 2022. Many arrive with urgent health needs, including dental care. Barriers such as language differences, unfamiliarity with the U.S. health care system, and lack of insurance make accessing dental services challenging. The Dental Mobile Health Center bridges the gap for those most in need.
The Dental Mobile Health Center addresses the growing demand for accessible dental care in Denver’s communities. By partnering with DPS and community programs, Denver Health has expanded mobile services to offer dental screenings, emergency care, and referrals. This approach ensures individuals receive comprehensive care tailored to their needs, bringing essential services directly to those who might otherwise face barriers to access.
Transformative milestones
The Dental Mobile Health Center has been instrumental in transforming the health landscape for newcomers in Denver. Between July 2023 and June 2024, the mobile health center conducted eight screening events, serving 155 individuals aged 2 to 71. Of these, 64% were children, highlighting the critical need for pediatric dental care.
Through these efforts, Denver Health identified 83 individuals with cavities and 35 with gum diseases like gingivitis or periodontitis. These conditions often get worse when not treated promptly. By providing timely care, we not only relieve patients’ pain but also help prevent more serious health problems in the future.
One of the program’s most significant successes is its ability to connect patients with ongoing care. For instance, 29 individuals were referred to Denver Health School-Based Health Centers (SBHCs) for preventative services, ensuring access to consistent, long-term care.
Beyond direct treatment, dental care often serves as a crucial entry point for establishing a regular primary care doctor, which helps reduce the demand for urgent and emergency care. This connection also enables patients to access Denver Health’s broader network of social services, including assistance with Medicare or Medicaid applications and support for SNAP or WIC.
The power of mobility
Bringing essential health care services directly to the community, Denver Health’s mobile health centers are tailored to address specific needs, such as primary care, vaccines, and health screenings. The Dental Mobile Health Center is one example of these efforts, strategically positioned alongside others to reach underserved neighborhoods. This approach ensures that vulnerable populations who face barriers to traditional health care facilities can still access vital care.
The power of philanthropy
The Dental Mobile Health Center’s impact is a testament to the power of community support. Through the generosity of partners and donors, this program is changing lives, one smile at a time. By bringing crucial dental care directly to those who need it most, Denver Health is not just treating dental issues but fostering a healthier, more equitable Denver.
This community-driven approach was clearly demonstrated in March 2024, when Denver Health mobile health centers provided vital services at Mullen House, a shelter for migrant families. Thanks to funding from Rose Community Foundation, this event offered dental screenings, referrals, primary care, and vaccines—all in one location. This holistic approach to care highlights the immense value of integrated, on-site health services.
“In a world where access to health care can be uneven and challenging, the Denver Health’s mobile health centers stand as a beacon of hope and innovation,” says Crystal Potter Rivera, Executive Director at Denver Health Foundation. “By providing essential dental services right where they are needed, Denver Health is ensuring a brighter, healthier future for everyone.”
Every gift to Denver Health Foundation fuels this transformative work, ensuring all Denver residents have access to the care they deserve. Your support can make a world of difference. To learn how you can be a part of this mission, visit the Denver Health Foundation’s donation page today.
