The Doctors of Community Act was introduced by U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone to permanently authorize the teaching health center graduate medical education program.
The act increases funding for the program to create more primary care and dental residency spots each year. The program is currently funded at $126.5 million per year, according to an April 11 news release from the representative's office.
If passed, funding would increase for the fiscal years 2024 through 2033, starting at $277 million in 2024 and reaching $582 million in 2033, the release said.
The funding would establish 48 education programs and 1,060 residency spots, adding to the dental workforce in underserved communities.
The ADA thanked Mr. Pallone for sponsoring the bill in an April 25 news release.