NEOMED's Bitonte College of Dentistry Achieves Initial Accreditation
This new academic venture is now the only public dental college in Ohio.
Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) has announced that its Bitonte College of Dentistry has successfully obtained initial accreditation from the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). This achievement paves the way for NEOMED to launch a Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree program. The university is set to begin recruiting students this year for enrollment in the fall of 2025.
Meeting Oral Health Demands
Oral health is recognized as the most critical unmet health need for many residents, according to data from health authorities. Notably, 77 out of Ohio’s 88 counties are designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas for dental care, underscoring a significant lack of access to dental services. NEOMED aims to address this pressing issue through its newly accredited program.
Leadership Perspectives
"NEOMED's primary objective is to meet the healthcare needs of Ohioans," remarked NEOMED President John T. Langell, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H., M.B.A. He highlighted that the Bitonte College of Dentistry will uphold the institution's tradition of training healthcare professionals who are committed to serving both rural and urban communities.
Frank Beck, D.D.S., FAAHD, the inaugural dean of the Bitonte College of Dentistry, expressed that the college is dedicated to addressing significant health challenges throughout Northeast Ohio while improving access to dental care in the region.
Funding and Future Development
The creation of the Bitonte College of Dentistry was made possible by a generous $10 million donation from the Dr. Dominic A. and Helen M. Bitonte Family Foundation. This substantial contribution, made in September 2022, has established a strong foundation for the college's future.
As part of NEOMED, the Bitonte College of Dentistry joins three other colleges: the College of Medicine, College of Pharmacy, and College of Graduate Studies, all of which contribute to the university's mission of healthcare education.
About NEOMED
As it celebrates its 50th anniversary, Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) is rooted in the values of diversity, innovation, and collaboration. The institution is committed to developing transformative leaders who enhance health through education, discovery, and service. NEOMED’s mission is bolstered by partnerships with several nationally recognized healthcare systems. The university is dedicated to principles of leadership, excellence, advocacy, diversity, equity, and respect, striving to expand educational opportunities through its diverse programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Bitonte College of Dentistry's accreditation?
The accreditation enables NEOMED to initiate its Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) program, which will help address critical dental care needs in Ohio.
When will the dental program begin enrolling students?
The program is set to recruit its first group of students for the fall of 2025.
Who funded the establishment of the Bitonte College of Dentistry?
A generous $10 million donation from the Dr. Dominic A. and Helen M. Bitonte Family Foundation facilitated the establishment of the college.
What gap is the Bitonte College of Dentistry aiming to fill?
The college seeks to alleviate the shortage of dental care professionals, especially in Health Professional Shortage Areas throughout Ohio.
What other colleges are part of NEOMED?
NEOMED encompasses the College of Medicine, College of Pharmacy, and College of Graduate Studies, enhancing its ability to provide comprehensive healthcare education.
