Fidelis Care and Solvere Health Partner for Mobile Dental Clinics in Utica and Oneida
When Brandy’s 12-year-old daughter, Khallyah, was suffering from a toothache, the Rome, Oneida County resident wasn’t sure where to quickly find the care that Khallyah needed. Brandy soon learned that Fidelis Care and healthcare provider Solvere Health were offering mobile dental clinics that provided convenient, quality services for Fidelis Care members in nearby Utica and Oneida.
“The mobile dental clinics are part of Fidelis Care’s commitment to address health equity disparities that impact the underserved population,” said Shannon Lombardo, Fidelis Care Director, Sales and Marketing. “These disparities, often caused by income, education, and where people live, can make it difficult to get needed care.”
Services available from dentists and hygienists at the mobile dental clinics included diagnostic exams, cleanings, X-rays, tooth pain management and antibiotics, fillings, extractions, and follow-up treatment plans. Brandy made appointments for Khallyah, as well as her son and 4-year-old granddaughter. She then took them on the short drive from Rome to Utica.
“Having that mobile dental clinic available was an absolute blessing,” said Brandy. “The setting was very comfortable and the care very professional. The Fidelis Care and Solvere Health staff members made us all feel at ease.”
Solvere Health delivers medical and dental care to underserved communities, partnering with organizations like Fidelis Care to improve people’s health. Beyond Utica and Oneida, Fidelis Care and Solvere Health have partnered on previous dental clinics in Onondaga and St. Lawrence counties.
“Places like Utica and Oneida are often referred to as ‘dental deserts’,” said Andrew Chapman, Solvere Health Systems Design Lead. “That’s why we are bringing resources and services to those areas, primarily focused on connecting the importance of oral health with greater physical health. An infection in the mouth can lead to an infection in the body so we’re excited to be able to offer services that can improve the health of the community.”
Brandy is grateful that Fidelis Care and Solvere Health were able to provide the care her family needed, and foster good dental habits.
“This was my granddaughter’s first visit to the dentist.” Brandy said. “The dentists and hygienists made such an awesome impression on her that she won’t be afraid when it’s time to go to the dentist again.”
Fidelis Care and Solvere Health team up again for mobile dental clinics in Utica and Oneida the week of November 27. The clinics run 9 AM to 4 PM November 27 and 28 near the Fidelis Care Utica Community Office with patient access from 203 Bleecker Street. The November 29 and 30, and December 1 clinics in Oneida are set from 9 AM to 4 PM at the Gorman Foundation Community Center, 1081 Northside Shopping Center, Oneida.
The clinics are open to Fidelis Care members of all ages. Fidelis Care members should call 1-877-248-6684 to make an appointment. A Fidelis Care ID and personal ID are required at the time of care.
Fidelis Care will also have representatives on site at the clinics to share information about health insurance and answer questions about renewals.
Read more about dental health and Fidelis Care's dental benefits at fideliscare.org/dental-resources.