By Hilary Canty
The Medical Teams International Mobile Dental clinic visited Orcas for eight days in 2012. Patient care was contributed by all three of our local dentists and their staffs, as well as Dr. Brar from Anacortes. Together, they provided free oral healthcare to over 130 neighbors in need. The majority of the visits focused on emergent and critical concerns, such as abscess, infection and extraction. Unfortunately, the number of qualified applications exceeded the number of appointments.
Thanks to a generous contribution in memory of Fritz Kraetzer, and donations from other generous community members, the Orcas Island Community Foundation is working with Rita Bailey and Barbara Ehrmantraut to provide four additional Dental Clinics in 2013, dates yet to be determined. Both Drs. Bailey and Ivans will continue to provide care through the clinics. Applications for the Dental Clinic are available at the Library, the Food Bank, Orcas Family Connections, and the Senior Center.
Completed applications can be dropped off in the Dental box by the front door of the Library. Applicants will be scheduled based on need and patients will be notified when they have an appointment. For more information, contact Rita at 376-6264.
In addition, Dr. Triplett will open his own office doors four days in 2013 to provide free extractions on a first come, first served basis for Orcas and Shaw Island residents. Services are limited to extractions only (including surgical extractions and most wisdom teeth), one per patient if others are waiting. The first of these dates is February 14th (followed by May 14, August 14, and November 14). Doors will open at 7:30 a.m. on those four dates to sign up for an appointment and complete health history forms. For more information, contact Dr. Triplett’s office, 376-4301.
Hilary Canty is Executive Director, Orcas Island Community Foundation
