September 27, 2024 3:20 a.m.

CHI Mercy Health’s Mercy Foundation has received a $125,000 grant from CareQuest Institute for Oral Health to increase their capacity to address the oral needs of the local inpatient veterans who require acute dental care.

A Mercy release said the initiative is part of Mercy Medical Center’s hospital-based oral health program which provides patients with preventative care including an assessment, fluoride varnish, silver diamine, sealants and education. Upon discharge, veteran patients are provided with a care plan and connection to a dental home for additional treatment and on-gong preventative care.

In addition, Mercy’s medical staff receive training from the program’s expanded practice dental hygienist, Jennie Hensely, to increase their overall understanding and application of oral health as part of routine patient care.

Mercy Foundation President Lisa Platt said, “We are grateful to CareQuest Institute for their support which aligns with our commitment to connect those who have served our country with access to oral health care”. Platt said, “We hope these funds will also be a catalyst to encourage further investments in dental care for veterans from policy makers”.

The release said Mercy Foundation serves the needs of youth and families through a variety of prevention and wellness programs to increase health equity among Douglas County residents. For more information about Mercy Foundation, go to: www.mercygiving.org.