Nursing and dental assistant students provide screening at RCCC
Published 12:00 am Thursday, September 26, 2019
- Submitted photo Rowan-Cabarrus nursing and dental assistant students helped in a screening for other students, with help from several dentists.
SALISBURY — The nursing and dental assisting programs at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College joined forces recently to host “Give Back, Smile Back,” offering free screenings and treatment for students.
Volunteers provided more than $13,500 in free dental services along with free medical and mental health screenings for nearly 75 people.
“We know that many of our students do not have medical and dental insurance, and that often means putting their health care needs on hold,” said Meredith Parker, chairwoman of the dental assisting program. “It was a dream come true for us to be able to collaborate and offer services to help our students take charge of their health.”
Dental care included cleanings, simple extractions and fillings; medical screenings included blood pressure checks, body mass index analysis, finger sticks for blood testing, cholesterol checks and glucose checks.
“This event meant a great deal to students who otherwise could not afford health screenings and dental services, and we are grateful to everyone who helped make it possible,” said nursing program chairwoman Emily Fink. “A big thank you goes to our faculty, students and community volunteers.”
Professionals who offered their services included dentists Drs. Michael Bossolina, Mitchell Siegal and Aigin Masoomi; dental hygienist Sherry Strickland; dental assistant Emily Wood; and counselors Taneka Gibson and Terri Pickett.
The N.C. Baptists on Mission mobile medical-dental unit was on site. The bus is used across the state by organizations that provide services for people who may not otherwise have access to quality health care.
“It is an unfortunate reality that many college students struggle between paying for food, gas and rent and taking care of their health,” said college President Carol S. Spalding. “I am proud of our faculty, staff and students for carrying out this wonderful outreach on behalf of those who need these services.”
For more information about Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, visit www.rccc.edu/apply or call 704-216-RCCC (7222).
