The Impact of a Multicultural Non-Profit Dental Clinic Located Outside Atlanta

Ethne Health Dental a community clinic located in Clarkston, Georgia

Photo: Ethne Health Dental Volunteers Dr. Brittany Hoover and Dental Assistant Glory

Brittany Hoover, DMD, GAGD Past-President

In an increasingly interconnected world, embracing diversity isn't just a buzzword; it's a necessity. Nowhere is this more evident than in healthcare, where cultural competency can make all the difference in providing effective and accessible services. One shining example of this is Ethne Health located in Clarkston, Georgia. Clarkston is known as the “Ellis Island of the South” with over 60 languages spoken in its 1.1 square mile.

Located in the heart of a culturally vibrant community, Ethne Health Dental Clinic stands as a beacon of hope and healing for individuals from diverse backgrounds. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by multicultural populations in accessing care, the dental clinic was founded as an extension of Ethne Health, a primary care clinic which opened in 2018 with a mission to bridge the gap and provide quality services to all, regardless of race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. The dental clinic is currently focused on seeing low income and uninsured patients with a limited scope of service including exams, cleanings, fillings and extractions.

At the core of the clinic's philosophy is the commitment to culturally competent care. This goes beyond simply providing language interpretation services (though those are crucial) to encompass a deep understanding and respect for the cultural beliefs, practices, and preferences of each patient. From the décor adorning the waiting room to the literature available in multiple languages, every aspect of the clinic is designed to make patients feel welcomed and understood.

Would you like to be a part of a thriving culturally diverse dental clinic? Ethne Health Dental is in need of equipment that is in good working condition. This could include everything from dental chairs to mirrors and explorers.  Oral hygiene education materials (ex. posters and models) and kits (ex. toothbrushes and floss) would be greatly appreciated. Finally, Ethne Health Dental is in need of a referral network. With a limited scope of practice, specialists are needed to fill in the gaps, especially oral surgery.

As the clinic looks to the future, its commitment to serving diverse populations remains unwavering. With plans to expand services and have more operating hours, Ethne Health Dental continues to be a beacon of hope for all who walk through its doors. In a world where divisions often seem insurmountable, the dental clinic stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when we come together. In doing so, it not only transforms smiles but also hearts and minds, one patient at a time.

Visit Ethne Health Dental to learn more about their current needs.