CHCC brings tele-dentistry to Tinian, Rota health centers

The Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. is taking a significant leap toward improving dental healthcare in the CNMI by introducing tele-dentistry to the islands of Tinian and Rota.

This initiative, made possible through a Department of the Interior’s Office of Insular Affairs grant, aims to bridge the geographical gap and enhance accessibility to dental services for residents of these islands.

One of the key advancements in this tele-dentistry program is the connectivity between CHCC dental staff and patients on Saipan, Tinian Health Center, and Rota Health Center. Thanks to the installation of the ACE Dental Software on designated laptops across all three islands, electronic dental records are now easily accessible and retrievable. This integration ensures seamless communication and collaboration between the three islands.

To facilitate effective tele-dentistry, CHCC has equipped each island with essential electronic devices, including laptops, monitors, mobile carts, webcams, headphones with microphones, and intraoral cameras. Four mobile units have been deployed—one each for RHC and THC and two on Saipan. These units enable interisland communication, allowing the CHCC dental team to consult, diagnose, and discuss treatment plans in real-time.

The intraoral cameras are a game-changer, enabling dentists to capture detailed images of lesions and oral conditions. These images can be evaluated later or shown to patients during consultations, providing a visual aid that enhances understanding and involvement in their oral health.

In addition to the electronic devices, CHCC has installed televisions and headsets at the CHCC Oral Clinic on Saipan, THC, and RHC. This setup serves a dual purpose—distracting anxious young patients and assisting in reducing the number of children requiring dental procedures under general anesthesia. The distraction technique also extends to adults with dental phobias, creating a more relaxed and comfortable environment for dental visits.

The introduction of tele-dentistry to Tinian and Rota signifies a crucial step toward ensuring that residents on Tinian and Rota have access to quality dental care. By leveraging technology and innovative approaches, CHCC is not only breaking down geographical barriers but also addressing the unique needs and challenges of oral healthcare in the CNMI. This initiative is a testament to CHCC’s commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and fostering overall well-being in the region. (PR)