Representative Butler is named a 2022 health equity hero

Press Release

DentaQuest, a purpose-driven oral health care company dedicated to improving the oral health of all, announced its 2022 Health Equity Heroes: disruptors in health systems. In addition to celebrating and promoting the work of the 12 Health Equity Heroes, DentaQuest is making $60,000 in charitable contributions — $5,000 in the name of each hero to a nonprofit of their choice.
Now in its eighth year, the DentaQuest Health Equity Hero program celebrates individuals and organizations responsible for extraordinary work that champions equitable access to health care (medical, oral health, behavioral health) and optimal overall health outcomes. This year, DentaQuest selected forward-thinking agents of change — heroes taking action to transform health systems in their communities in an effort to remedy long-standing disparities.
“Over the last two years, it’s become startlingly clear that our current health systems are in desperate need of transformation,” DentaQuest President Steve Pollock said. “These Health Equity Heroes are earnestly taking action, finding innovative and inspiring ways to champion change and create a more inclusive system. We are privileged to honor them as heroes and give thanks to them and so many others who are making a difference in oral and overall health.”
Among the heroes is Representative Rhonda Butler, of the State of Louisiana House of Representatives. She understood that dental care is the number one unmet need among adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD). Lack of access to comprehensive dental care for these adults creates an over-dependence and strain on hospital emergency departments.
For Rep. Butler, a parent of an adult with I/DD, prevention is key. In an effort to expand access to care for this population, she successfully championed legislation to enable I/DD adults over the age of 21 to access a dental provider and get needed services through the state. These changes will prevent or reduce the impact of illness on individuals and their families. Rep. Butler asked that the DentaQuest Equity Hero contribution support St. Mary’s Residential Training School, locally known for its work to create meaningful jobs, build a sense of belonging.
About DentaQuest
DentaQuest is a purpose-driven health care company dedicated to improving the oral health of all. We do this through Preventistry® — our inclusive approach to quality care and expanded access built on trusted partnerships between patients, providers and payors. As one of the nation’s largest and most experienced Medicaid dental benefits administrators, we manage dental and vision benefits for more than 33 million Americans through a nationwide network of providers in all 50 states. Our outcomes-based, cost-effective dental solutions are designed for Medicaid and CHIP, Medicare Advantage, small and large businesses, and individuals. At the same time, we are expanding our footprint of more than 70 oral health centers in six states to deliver direct patient care in rural and underserved populations. Learn more at www.DentaQuest.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter.