Health Bosses Hoping Multi-Million Dollar Upgrade At Queensland Dental Clinic Will Attract Dentists
Health bosses and members of staff from the dental department of James Cook University are hoping that multi-million dollar renovations of a Queensland dental clinic will help to attract new dentists and encourage dental students to stay in the area.
The student dental clinic at Mareeba has undergone a $2.6 million upgrade, which was funded by the Commonwealth. The clinic was dated and the range of services limited. Now, millions of dollars have been spent to upgrade and improve facilities and ensure the clinic is suitable for modern dentists and patients. The clinic is used by final year students from James Cook University and provides an important base for learning and developing practical skills and gaining first hand experience of treating patients.
Associate Dean of the university, Dr Felicity Croker, said that the new clinic has already made a significant impact, helping to cut waiting times for patients in the local area. The Mareeba clinic was old and shabby and the improvements enable dentists and patients to enjoy much more pleasant settings, which are also suited to the demands and diversity of modern dentistry.
The university is hoping that dental graduates will be more inclined to stay and work in the state, especially in smaller communities, which often struggle to recruit dental professionals. The university has a commitment to providing services in small towns and there are currently graduates working in local practices within the region.
Join this Discussion