In a recent ABC27 Good Day PA segment, Dr. Michael Verber and Representative Jacklyn Rusnock discussed Pennsylvania’s growing dental access crisis, revealing that approximately 2 million Pennsylvanians lack access to dental care.
The shortage of dental hygienists and assistants has worsened the situation, with 2.5 million residents annually seeking emergency room care for dental issues like abscesses—a costly and inappropriate use of emergency services.
However, there’s hope on the horizon with new educational programs emerging, including Central Penn College’s Dental Assistant Program and Expanded Function Dental Assistant program, plus a pending dental hygiene program approval.
Representative Rusnock, who brings unique perspective as both a legislator and former dental educator, shared her 11-year experience teaching dental occupations to approximately 400 students. She highlighted the challenge of limited dental hygiene program seats, noting that only 5 of her 400 students successfully completed hygiene programs.
Both advocates emphasized that addressing the dental workforce shortage through expanded educational opportunities can create lucrative, family-sustaining careers while improving patient access to care.
Those interested in learning more about career opportunities and educational programs can visit VerberDentalGroup.com/careers.
