The Alpha Omega-Henry Schein Cares Holocaust Survivors Oral Health Program is a pilot three-year initiative that provides pro bono dental care to Holocaust survivors.
The program began January 2015 in 12 North American metropolitan areas and is working to expand to more cities. It focuses on providing oral care for economically vulnerable Holocaust survivors who are served by the network of Jewish Family and Children's Service agencies and identified partner organizations, as well as individuals of any faith who were victims of Nazi persecution.
"We are treating a population that had suffered unimaginable persecution at the hands of the Nazi regime, allowing them to live out their final years comfortably and with dignity. These acts of love, encompassed by this care, create emotional bonds between doctor and patient and change the people involved forever." —Marc Rothman, DMD, Immediate Past Chair of the Foundation
"One of my clients, Irina, was a dentist in the former USSR. She spoke very highly about her dentist's skills. [...] I confirmed that a tooth was extracted after talking to the dental assistant. Irina could not stop talking about the wonderful atmosphere in the office." —Caseworker
If you are seeing a needy Holocaust survivor patient, please refer him or her to the local Jewish social service agency. For more information, visit ao.org.
Above: Dr. Marc Rothman and a survivor patient
Catch up on past APEX Inspirations:
APEX Inspiration: MEDi From RxRobots
APEX Inspiration: Solea laser transforms dentistry at UH Rainbow babies and children's hospital
APEX Inspiration: UOR Dental Impact 2015
APEX Inspiration: Alliance For Smiles
