Dental Reimbursement Program - The University of North Carolina Adams School of Dentistry seeks support through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program (RWHAP) Part F Dental Reimbursement Program to sustain and expand access to comprehensive oral health care services for low-income people with HIV. During the reporting period of July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, our institution provided essential oral health services to individuals living with HIV, many of whom faced significant financial barriers to care. Consistent with the goals of the RWHAP Part F Dental Reimbursement Program, reimbursement funds will offset uncompensated and partially uncompensated oral health care costs and support continued access to high-quality, evidence-based dental care for this vulnerable population. Oral health is an integral component of overall health and HIV care. Our program delivers preventive, diagnostic, restorative, periodontal, surgical, prosthodontic, and emergency dental services as part of a comprehensive care model that promotes improved health outcomes, retention in care, and quality of life for people with HIV. By reducing barriers to oral health services, the program supports national efforts to improve health outcomes and advance viral suppression among people living with HIV. As an accredited dental education program, our institution also provides HIV-related education and clinical training for dental students, residents, dental hygiene students, and other oral health professionals. Through direct patient care experiences and targeted educational activities, trainees develop the knowledge and competencies necessary to provide compassionate, evidence-based oral health care for people with HIV. This workforce development component strengthens the future oral health workforce and improves access to culturally responsive care. RWHAP Part F Dental Reimbursement Program funds will be allocated to support oral health services for low-income people with HIV and to enhance educational and training opportunities related to HIV oral health care. The program aligns with HRSA's goals of improving access to care, supporting HIV treatment and retention in care, and advancing health equity for medically vulnerable populations. Total unreimbursed costs of oral health care services provided to people with HIV from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025: $30,388 This project will ensure continued access to comprehensive oral health services for people with HIV while strengthening the education and training of future oral health professionals committed to serving this population.
