OVP Health Care
Location
Huntington, West Virginia
The Dentist provides comprehensive oral health care, including prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, to underserved populations in a Rural Health Clinic. Responsibilities include performing clinical procedures, educating patients on oral hygiene, and collaborating with primary care providers to integrate oral health into overall patient care.
Candidates must hold a DDS or DMD degree and possess an active dental license in West Virginia along with DEA registration. Experience in general dentistry is required, with a preference for those with backgrounds in community or rural health settings.
The Dentist provides comprehensive oral health care services to patients in a Rural Health Clinic (RHC), focusing on prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of dental conditions in a medically underserved population. This role emphasizes access to care, patient education, and integration with primary care services, supporting overall health outcomes. RHCs are designed to expand access to essential healthcare in rural and underserved communities, requiring providers to deliver high-quality, cost-effective, and compliant care within a team-based environment.
Clinical Care Perform comprehensive dental examinations, diagnoses, and treatment planning Provide preventive services including cleanings, fluoride treatments, and sealants Perform restorative procedures such as fillings, crowns, and basic prosthodontics Conduct simple extractions and minor oral surgical procedures Diagnose and manage oral infections, diseases, and dental emergencies Prescribe medications appropriately (e.g., antibiotics, analgesics)
Preventive & Community Health Focus Educate patients on oral hygiene, nutrition, and disease prevention Promote early detection of oral health issues, including oral cancer screenings Address barriers to care common in rural populations (transportation, cost, access) Participate in outreach programs or school-based dental initiatives (if applicable)
Care Coordination & Collaboration Collaborate with primary care providers, behavioral health staff, and specialists Integrate oral health with overall patient care plans Refer patients to specialists (oral surgery, orthodontics, etc.) when necessary Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and case discussions
Compliance & Documentation Maintain accurate and timely patient records in EHR/EMR systems Ensure compliance with federal, state, and RHC regulations Follow infection control, sterilization, and OSHA standards Adhere to Medicaid/Medicare billing and documentation requirements
Operations & Quality Improvement Support clinic workflow efficiency and patient access Supervise dental hygienists, assistants, and support staff Participate in quality improvement initiatives and performance metrics Assist with inventory management and procurement of dental supplies Contribute to maintaining accreditation and readiness for audits
Education & Licensure Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from an accredited program Active dental license in West Virginia (or eligibility) DEA registration (or ability to obtain)
Experience Experience in general dentistry required Experience in community health, public health, or rural settings preferred Familiarity with Medicaid populations and underserved patient care strongly preferred