The University of South Dakota has restructured its partnership with Sioux Falls, S.D.-based Falls Community Health to expand access to dental care, according to an Aug. 19 report from Sioux Falls Simplified.
Here are 10 things to know:
- The university has a longstanding partnership with Falls Community Health, but previously operated a separate clinic for dental hygiene students within the federally qualified health center.
- Under the new agreement, Falls Community Health will take over operations of the USD dental clinic.
- As a FQHC, Falls Community Health receives higher Medicaid reimbursement rates. The city of Sioux Falls could receive more than $150,000 in Medicaid reimbursements from USD’s dental patients.
- Currently, USD’s clinic uses six of the 14 dental chairs at the health center.
- With the new agreement, Falls Community Health will have access to all 14 chairs on Mondays and Fridays. USD dental hygiene students will have access to five of the chairs on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
- USD will no longer pay $42,000 in rent to the health center each year.
- A full-time faculty member from USD will oversee clinical work, with the city contributing 30% of their salary.
- The city will also hire a part-time front office staff member.
- The new agreement is set to take effect Sept. 1.
- “This transition reflects our shared responsibility to build sustainable solutions that expand access to patient care, prepare future health professionals and respond to community needs,” Betsy Becker, dean of the USD School of Health Sciences, said.
At the Becker's 5th Annual Future of Dentistry Roundtable, taking place September 14-15 in Chicago, dental leaders and executives will gain insights into emerging technologies, practice growth strategies and the evolving landscape of dental care delivery, with a focus on innovation, patient experience and operational excellence. Apply for complimentary registration now.
