PDS Health's Annual Serve Day Enhances Community Health Access
The annual event highlights the critical connection between oral and overall health while achieving unprecedented levels of community support.
PDS Health, a prominent integrated healthcare support organization, recently hosted its milestone annual Smile Generation Serve Day. This 15th edition of the nationwide event focused on serving the health needs of underserved communities and reaffirmed the organization's dedication to complete health integration. Over 12,000 PDS Health team members came together to provide vital dental and medical services, helping to bridge significant gaps in healthcare access and demonstrating a firm commitment to whole-person health.
Community Impact Through Volunteer Service
This year’s Smile Generation Serve Day was monumental, achieving over 74,000 hours of volunteer services and providing more than $20 million in healthcare services at no cost to patients. In various areas, such as California and Texas, patients received significant care, reflecting the organization's influence in improving community health.
Strengthening Community Health
Some PDS Health practices showcased the beneficial integration between dental and medical care during the event. This combination played a crucial role in addressing overall health needs. By partnering clinical expertise across disciplines, PDS Health underscored the importance of the link between oral health and overall health, often referred to as the Mouth-Body Connection.
With over 72 million Americans facing barriers to accessing dental care, including financial constraints and limited provider options, the Smile Generation Serve Day directly mitigates these obstacles. This initiative not only aids in dental health but also addresses numerous systemic health issues like heart disease and diabetes, thereby providing holistic benefits to community wellness.
Lasting Contributions to Community Health
The powerful reach of this event has provided, since its inception in 2011, over $94 million in donated care to approximately 37,000 patients. Each year, the event's impact deepens, exhibiting the vast potential of integrated care to foster healthier communities. This year's efforts are a prime example of how collaborative healthcare can redefine individual and community health outcomes.
Reflecting on the impact of the day, Stephen E. Thorne IV, Founder and CEO of PDS Health, stated, "Every year, we witness the significant impacts of Smile Generation Serve Day—to our patients, communities, and our dedicated volunteers. Service not only promotes better health but also cultivates compassion and connection among us all as we strive to build healthier communities together."
Feedback from Participants
Healthcare professionals across the nation expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage deeply with their communities. DMD Jana Kubicek, owner of Dentists of Apache Junction in Arizona, shared her feelings about the event: "Seeing everyone unite for a common purpose was inspiring. I'm grateful for the chance to make a substantial difference alongside my extraordinary team. Each member contributed their kindness and enthusiasm to our mission. Truly thankful for this experience."
Outreach and Collaboration
PDS Health partnered with multiple organizations to reach a broader audience. This collaboration ensured that care touched the lives of veterans, families in need, and marginalized individuals who might not typically receive such services. Partners included notable non-profits assisting various sectors of the community.
Through initiatives like the Smile Generation Serve Day, PDS Health is positioning itself as a leader in integrated healthcare services. This year’s event is a testament to the effectiveness of community involvement and teamwork in promoting health equity and well-being among all individuals.
To learn more about PDS Health’s initiatives and impact, please visit pdshealth.com.
About PDS Health
PDS Health continues the journey initiated by Pacific Dental Services to redefine healthcare through the integration of dental and medical services. Focusing on the connection between oral health and overall health, the organization seeks to create healthier, happier patients by advancing healthcare benchmarks. As a leader in healthcare support, PDS Health provides a comprehensive range of services, improving operations and patient care delivery for providers nationwide.
About Smile Generation
Smile Generation connects patients to trusted dental professionals committed to delivering exceptional experiences and care. Emphasizing the importance of oral health and its relationship with overall well-being, Smile Generation has established a robust network across its dental locations, supported by PDS Health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Smile Generation Serve Day?
Smile Generation Serve Day is an annual event organized by PDS Health to provide free dental and medical services to underserved communities.
How many participants were involved in Smile Generation Serve Day this year?
This year, over 12,000 PDS Health team members participated in the event, showcasing a strong commitment to community service.
What kind of services were offered during the event?
The event provided essential dental and primary care services, addressing various healthcare needs and emphasizing the integration of services.
How much in healthcare services was donated during Smile Generation Serve Day?
Over $20 million in donated healthcare services was provided through the event, significantly impacting those in need.
What is PDS Health's mission?
PDS Health aims to redefine health care through integrated dental and medical services, focusing on the connection between oral and overall health to improve patient outcomes.
