PORT ANGELES — Volunteers in Medicine of the Olympics plans to host a larger-than-usual free dental clinic this Friday.
Irwin Dental Center expects to bring in a big group of volunteers in order to handle as many patients as possible in one day, said Rebekah Miller, a VIMO board member.
No appointments will be taken, and patients are encouraged to arrive early for the clinic in Armory Square at 228 W. First St.
Friday’s volunteer effort is only a continuation of the support of the VIMO free dental clinics from the local dental community, Miller said.
Not only are local dentists donating money — such as a $1,500 check that Dr. Nathan Gelder presented to VIMO on Jan. 19 — but they also provide their time and expertise at no cost to the patient.
The free VIMO dental clinic is open every Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Armory Square.
A pool of local dentists, hygienists and assistants volunteer their time to operate the emergency dental clinics on an ongoing basis.
When the state Department of Health and Human Services eliminated adult dental care services in early 2011, OlyCAP — Olympic Community Action Programs — closed the doors of its Oral Health Center in Armory Square.
That meant that the Olympic Medical Center’s emergency room was the only resource in the community for emergency dental care for low-income adult patients, Miller said.
“Retired dentist Dr. Larry B. Little, executive director of VIMO, called upon the dental community for help, and they responded,” Miller said.
The first free emergency dental clinic staffed by volunteers was opened last August.
Since then, it has served 216 patients.
The approximate value of these donated services, which includes 568 volunteer hours, is estimated to exceed $66,000, Miller said.
Because of limited resources, VIMO can meet only the most basic needs for emergency dental care, Miller said.
Services are limited to treatment of acute dental infection or pain, and treatment is provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
For more information, phone 360-452-4726 or visit www.vimoclinic.org.
