(Perry, FL) – North Florida Medical (NFM) is proud to announce the expansion of services to include an Elementary Dental Outreach program in Taylor County. This program provides dental assessments, oral health and total health education, application of fluoride varnishes, oral hygiene instructions, prophylaxis, (cleanings) and dental sealants by licensed dental hygienists. NFM currently operates similar programs at four Okaloosa County elementary schools and three in Gadsden County.
School based sealant programs increase sealant use and reduce cavities. In addition, school programs have the potential to link students to dental treatment services in the community such as NFM’s dental center in Perry. They also facilitate enrollment of eligible children in public insurance programs such as Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program.
Forty-three percent of students at the Taylor County elementary schools are enrolled in the Free and Reduced Lunch Program, indicating these students are from low-income families. The addition of these schools to NFM’s programs will increase access to necessary dental care to the low income, underserved and uninsured children in our service area. The dental hygienists will provide services at the school, which will reduce transportation issues for children and families.
A healthy mouth is paramount to a healthy child. Medical studies link proper dental care to the well-being of the entire body. Providing dental services to these children allows NFM to increase patient access and fulfill its mission: to increase access to quality healthcare and improve the overall health of the community.
NFM’s Perry location provides both medical and dental services, as well as programs for diabetes management. NFM accepts most insurance, including Medicaid and Medicare, and offers a sliding scale fee of $10-$30 based on household income. The proximity to the school and the payment options provide an effective safety net for children who require additional medical or dental services.
To schedule an appointment at NFM, call 850-838-2030 for medical appointments or 850-223-2578 for dental services.
About North Florida Medical
North Florida Medical Centers is a nonprofit with 10 locations in North Florida. We are committed to providing comprehensive primary health care services to the community. The center accepts most insurance and offers a sliding scale discount program for eligible patients while providing highly quality and cost-effective medical and dental care for the entire family. High quality care reduces or eliminates the need for costly care in the emergency room or avoidable hospital stays.
North Florida Medical’s Perry office is currently at 616 S Jefferson Street but will be completing their new and expanded facility at 1850 South Byron Butler Parkway this year. To schedule an appointment at North Florida Medical in Perry, please call (850) 838-2030.
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