Matt's Situation

Examining Matt

Matt arrives at your office with his mother. You identify and treat the offending tooth (T) and note large lesions on A, J, and L. You advise Matt's mom to schedule an appointment for comprehensive care.

On history you learn that neither Matt nor his siblings have seen a dentist in three years because of time and monetary constraints. Dad is often out of town and mom is busy working while raising the children. The family currently has no dental insurance.

Removing Barriers

You encourage Matt's mother to work with the school social worker to determine the family's eligibility for insurance coverage, identify transportation and child care options, and prioritize her children's oral health care.

Improving Patient Outcomes

As a case manager, your local school social worker can help the parent improve her children's oral health by prioritizing their dental care and connecting the family with community resources such as the WIC and SNAP food and nutrition programs.