February 25, 2009

Students at Roosevelt High School in Chicago's Albany Park neighborhood now have improved access to affordable dental care. Heartland International Health Center, an affiliate of Heartland Alliance for Human Needs & Human Rights, has opened a two-chair dental suite in the school's health center.

Students can get everything from basic cleanings to fillings and extractions from the school's dentist.

Tooth decay is prevalent at a much higher rate among Illinois' low-income children—affecting their ability to learn and perform—than among more advantaged students. With the high rates of poverty and near-poverty conditions near Roosevelt High School, the services will help address the disproportionately high percentage of children with tooth decay and other oral health issues in the community.

Illinois Senator Iris Martinez attended the dental suite's open house on February 23 and emphasized the need for more preventive dental care for students.

"Young people don't often think about preventive dental care. They think as long as they can chew their food, they're OK. But regular care can help catch problems early," Sen. Martinez said. She pledged her commitment to bringing dental services to more schools throughout Chicago and the state.

Heartland Health Center – Roosevelt is one of only a handful of school health centers in Illinois offering primary care, mental health care, and oral health care services using a new integrated electronic health records system.

This school-based health center will soon be joined by a new Heartland Health Center in nearby Lincoln Square, which will provide primary care, mental health care, and oral health care to the community at large.

"We'll be providing a seamless transition for Roosevelt students to get a full range of services in their community even after they graduate," said Dr. Bechara Choucair, executive director and medical director of Heartland International Health Center.

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