Boosting Access to Dental Services in Arkansas

One of the keys to living healthier, longer lives is access to quality care and treatment. Without a strong supply of medical professionals in our communities to provide that help, we will struggle to fully achieve this goal.

We’re actively working to strengthen the healthcare workforce in Arkansas and retain the professionals trained in our state. In recent years, an expansion of medical training is preparing the next generation of doctors. The latest example will serve to enhance the availability of oral health care as The Natural State’s first school of dental medicine is launched. Last month, we celebrated the groundbreaking for this facility that Lyon College is proudly forging in partnership with other health entities.

A study by the Arkansas Center for Health Improvement found access to dentists, particularly in rural areas, is limited. In 2019, 11 counties had a dental provider shortage and two counties had no active dentist.

Establishing the Lyon College School of Dental Medicine to address this shortfall is a solution our state needs and is embracing with excitement.

This year Congress passed, and the president signed into law, legislation that funds Arkansas health projects including a critical investment to make this project a reality. I was proud to advocate for federal funds to support dental education in our state because it’s an important component of overall health.

It’s taken a lot of hard work and dedication to get to this point. From the leadership of Batesville’s Lyon College to the committed professionals in the community and across the state who have supported this initiative, the vision to enhance the resources and services available to Arkansans to promote both health and wellness has been evident and convincing.

I am particularly proud of Lyon College's enthusiasm and persistence. The impact this decision will have on the future of Arkansas is significant – expanding access to dental care by generating a pipeline of dental professionals who will practice here at home and further enriching the quality of life in communities across all 75 of our counties.

The broad support for this endeavor demonstrates our collective desire to advance this vital form of healthcare in a truly meaningful way. Ensuring more Arkansans have access to dental services they need will help prevent long-term dental challenges in our communities. This is especially critical for our children, as good oral health practices established early can lead to a lifetime of better health outcomes.

I applaud Lyon College for its unwavering commitment to taking on this mission and moving us one step closer to our goal. The school anticipates admitting its first class of dental graduate students next year at its new Little Rock campus. I’ve been pleased to support this great example of an educational institution leading the way to solve a pressing need in our communities.

The groundbreaking signals a healthier, brighter future we are building together for Arkansas. I am grateful to all those whose contributions have helped pave the way, as well as the many supporters of this major project and all Arkansans for their shared passion for improving access to oral healthcare.

Together, we are making history and setting the foundation for a healthier, happier Arkansas. I look forward to following the progress and welcoming future dental professionals to our state to deliver excellent oral and dental care to their families, friends and neighbors.