Ryan White Title III HIV Capacity Development and Planning Grants - StayWell Health Center (StayWell) will lead an infrastructure development project to address oral health for its 270 PLWH patients and the remaining 3,092 PLWH in StayWell’s catchment area who otherwise have limited access to care that is inefficient and prone to pain and discomfort. The burden of HIV/AIDS in StayWell’s catchment area is intensified by the large number of PLWHA living in poverty, who are affected with other medical conditions, and lack health insurance – including a population of PLWH who are not eligible for insurance under most publicly-funded programs and require several medical and social support services to be able to survive. StayWell’s RWHAP C program addresses health inequities of HIV by providing medical case management, oral health, EIS, outpatient/ambulatory health services, medical nutrition therapy, non-medical case management, outreach, CTR, treatment adherence and gynecological care to support the most impacted and vulnerable population who have unique challenges, poorer health outcomes and carry a disproportionate burden of the epidemic. Alternatives are limited for patients given the nearest dental provider for PLWH is 38 minutes away. For the 50% of StayWell’s PLWH who receive an annual dental exam, the need for restorative care is extensive. In treating patients with advanced decay, time is often a factor—delayed treatment can lead to worsened dental and medical conditions. With clinical team members and case managers working with patients on the uphill battle against limited appointment availability, patient fears, Medicaid coverage restrictions and increased infection risks, offering subpar care becomes another disincentive for patients. This project will give dentists and hygienists the modern equipment to more rapidly and less painfully complete the extensive and complex work needed by many patients. This proposal directly addresses challenges to dental care by equipping targeted dental clinics with advanced technological tools to ensure safe, high-impact oral healthcare for PLWHA with reduced pain, radiation exposure and excessive visits. Investing in upgraded equipment not only addresses current dental issues but also supports long-term oral health. With more accurate diagnostic tools and efficient treatment options, we can help prevent future dental issues in patients who have had years of neglect. Upgraded equipment improves treatment efficiency, allowing us to perform more detailed and effective procedures in less time. This means we can treat more patients who are in urgent need of care, reducing wait times and improving overall patient satisfaction. An investment of $150,000 for dental infrastructure will have a significant and ongoing positive impact on the oral health of patients.
