Public-private partnership between Delta Dental of Idaho and Idaho State University improves access to dental care in the Treasure Valley
Grand Opening of Delta Dental of Idaho Dental Residency Clinic at ISU - Meridian
Idaho State University and Delta Dental of Idaho celebrated the grand opening of a new dental clinic today to provide advanced education for licensed dentists and affordable dental care for all Idahoans, including underserved patients in the Treasure Valley.
The 5,200 square feet Delta Dental of Idaho Dental Residency Clinic at Idaho State University is centrally located at the ISU Meridian Health Science Center. The new facility has 12 clinical treatment rooms—including two surgical suites with video-conferencing capabilities—and an X-ray and sterilization lab.
The dental clinic was made possible with a $500,000 gift from Delta Dental of Idaho Community Outreach and a $1 million appropriation recommended by Idaho Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter and approved by the 2010 Idaho Legislature.
Guest speaker Idaho Lt. Gov. Brad Little applauded the public-private partnership between Delta Dental of Idaho and ISU.
Stated Little, “Improving affordability and access to quality health care has always been a pressing need in our state. The partnership between Delta Dental and Idaho State University is a giant step towards fulfilling this need.”
Jean De Luca, president and chief executive officer of Delta Dental of Idaho, said the partnership with Idaho State University is a perfect fit.
“Improving the health of Idahoans and promoting education is at the core of who we are. We are thrilled to be working with ISU to expand dental health services in the Treasure Valley and develop a highly qualified dental workforce for the future,” said De Luca.
Each year, ISU’s dental residency program admits four dentists to practice at the new clinic. They will receive 12 months of advanced education in all facets of general dentistry, including oral surgery, periodontics, endodontics, pediatric dentistry and restorative techniques.
“When we designed the Meridian Health Science Center several years ago, we envisioned a medical, education and research facility under one roof, which would serve not only our students, but all of Idaho,” said ISU President Arthur C. Vailas. “With the completion of the dental clinic, we are a step closer to fulfilling that vision. Thank you, Delta Dental of Idaho for your generous support.”
The clinic accepts most insurance plans and honors a sliding fee scale based on family income. To contact the clinic, call 373-1855.