“Lift as we Climb” – A Domestic Access to Care Project in New York

In 2023, the Foundation for Endodontics and Specialized Dental Partners’ Domestic Access to Care program awarded $60,000 to various projects around the US. Dr. Marcus Johnson, Chief of Endodontics at One Brooklyn Hospitals, is using the grant to address inequities in access to care in Brooklyn, New York.

“I have witnessed firsthand the urgent need for specialized care within marginalized communities, and communities of color,” says Dr. Johnson. In his unique role within the hospital system and in private practice, Dr. Johnson sees the sheer numbers of unhoused individuals presenting in the Emergency Department with dental needs. Motivated to affect change and driven by an intense urge to serve, Dr. Johnson created “Lift as we Climb.” This program aims to increase access to specialty care and divert emergent visits to nonurgent or semi-urgent, less expensive, and more effective, oral health care and treatment for some of the most vulnerable people in and around New York City.

“Lift as we Climb” held its inaugural day of service in conjunction with Juneteenth 2024, providing endodontic treatments to 16 patients in a single day. Dr. Johnson’s office was abuzz as four endodontists, one orthodontist and countless support staff worked diligently to restore teeth and dignity to their neighbors.

Remember, the Foundation for Endodontics believes every endodontist has the capacity to affect real change within their community. Consider applying for a Domestic Access to Care grant; the deadline is in June!