Home Retrospective: Dental clinic expansion has allowed nonprofit to serve 2K new patients
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Retrospective: Dental clinic expansion has allowed nonprofit to serve 2K new patients

Crystal Graham
Augusta Regional Dental Clinic
Submitted photo

The Augusta Regional Dental Clinic expansion has allowed the Fishersville nonprofit to welcome approximately 2,000 new patients since last June.

The clinic’s impact has resulted in shorter wait times and 1,250 appointments available every month.

The expansion included four additional treatment rooms, an ADA-compliant operatory and enhanced workspace for clinical and administrative staff.

“This expansion has been a game-changer for our community,” said Dr. Albert Schulz, ARDC clinical supervisor. “It has allowed us to serve more patients, accommodate individuals with mobility challenges and improve the overall flow and efficiency of care.”

Over the past year, the Augusta County clinic has:

  • Increased capacity for emergency dental care and preventative services
  • Developed new services geared towards patients with special healthcare needs
  • Strengthened partnerships with local schools and healthcare provider
  • Expanded integration of mental health and food assistance services

“We are deeply grateful to the donors, foundations, and community partners who made this expansion possible,” said Sophie Parson, ARDC executive director. “Being able to accept new patients again and cut wait times has been a huge relief for our community. We have been able to accommodate new patients in need of urgent treatment prior to being deployed or prior to being scheduled for cancer treatment or heart surgery.

“Together, we’re not just treating dental needs — we’re restoring dignity, comfort, and hope.”

For more information, visit augustaregionaldentalclinic.org or call (540) 221-6635.


Crystal Graham

Crystal Graham

Crystal Abbe Graham is the regional editor of Augusta Free Press. A 1999 graduate of Virginia Tech, she has worked for 25 years as a reporter and editor for several Virginia publications, written a book, and garnered more than a dozen Virginia Press Association awards for writing and graphic design. She was the co-host of "Viewpoints," a weekly TV news show, and co-host of Virginia Tonight, a nightly TV news show on PBS. Her work on "Virginia Tonight" earned her a national Telly award for excellence in television.