Neighborhood Health’s Oxford Clinic is set to redefine accessibility in healthcare with a groundbreaking $1 million grant from the AWS Foundation. This new facility is designed to cater to a broad spectrum of needs, with a particular emphasis on enhancing dental care for individuals with disabilities.
The clinic will feature a range of accommodations aimed at improving accessibility and comfort. Planned enhancements include sensory rooms, adjustable lighting, audio/visual aids, specialized medical equipment, accessible bathrooms, and elevators.
“The medically underserved population in this region faces significant challenges, including limited accessibility, inadequate quality and inclusive care, and a general mistrust stemming from past negative healthcare experiences,” said Angie Zaegel, President and CEO of Neighborhood Health. “We are incredibly grateful for AWS Foundation’s partnership, which is pivotal in our mission to provide targeted care for those with disabilities. Their financial support and expertise are crucial in amplifying our impact in the healthcare sector.”
Neighborhood Health reports that approximately 20% of Hoosiers live with some form of disability, yet only one-third of disabled adults have a consistent healthcare provider. The organization underscores that dental care, in particular, poses unique challenges due to the nature of dental instruments and the clinical environment.
Two years prior, Neighborhood Health’s dental team received specialized training at New York University School of Dentistry’s Oral Health Center for Persons with Disabilities.
“We were determined to integrate these learnings into our existing facilities, and the Oxford Clinic represents an ideal project to apply these inclusive design principles comprehensively,” stated Dr. Tyler Kimmel, Chief Dental Officer at Neighborhood Health.
The Oxford Clinic aims to leverage the expertise gained from the NYU training and its thoughtfully designed environment to improve oral health outcomes for individuals with disabilities.
“Neighborhood Health has effectively incorporated the insights gained from NYU, ensuring that both the design and functionality of the Oxford Clinic adhere to Universal Design principles. This approach is instrumental in addressing the historically poor state of oral health among disabled individuals,” noted Patti Hays, CEO of AWS Foundation.
You Might Be Interested In
