End of an Era: Beloved St. Paul Dental Clinic for Uninsured Shuts Down
End of an Era: St. Paul Dental Clinic Faces Closure
A cherished St. Paul dental clinic, a lifeline for uninsured patients, stands at a crossroads with its future hanging by a thread.
ST. PAUL, Minn. – The clock is ticking for a beloved dental clinic that has served the community for decades, offering critical care to those without insurance.
The Tooth Hurts
Why it matters: In Minnesota, a staggering 25% of residents lack dental insurance, and with Medicare leaving seniors in the lurch, many are stuck either shelling out cash they don’t have or desperately hoping facilities like this one will remain open.
At Hope Dental Clinic, the dedicated team is fueled by compassion, going above and beyond to treat patients who have nowhere else to turn.
“We do what needs to be done,” says Dr. Christine Hermanson, her determination shining through.
Hope Dental Clinic: A Community Beacon Faces Closure
After 60 years of providing care, a St. Paul dental clinic dedicated to uninsured patients may soon close its doors. The community reflects on its impact as the board chair discusses the challenges ahead.
Last year alone, nearly 2,800 patients from Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa turned to Hope, desperate for dental care when no other options were available.
For Mary, a 60-year-old from Eagan, Hope has been a true lifeline. “It’s been a game changer for me,” she shares.
A Life-Changing Experience
From the heart: Mary endured two hospitalizations due to dental issues while going without care. Thanks to her daughter’s discovery of Hope, she can finally smile confidently at her daughter’s wedding.
“Instead of this,” she says, mimicking a tight-lipped smile, “I can smile like this now!”
For six decades, Hope Dental Clinic has been a staple in St. Paul, with its current location serving the community for the last six years.
Is This the Final Goodbye?
What’s happening now: Unfortunately, the clinic’s voicemail now carries the bittersweet message: “Hope Dental Clinic has closed permanently.”
With over 95% of its staff being volunteers—around 450 in total—the clinic still faces an uphill battle with monthly expenses reaching nearly $100,000.
“Everyone here has told us they don’t want us to close,” laments Linda Maytan, chair of the board, “but goodwill doesn’t pay the bills. We’re praying for a miracle.”
Just two weeks ago, they had to lay off staff and lock the doors.
“It’s heartbreaking,” says Dr. Natalie Gomez. “So many patients are in the middle of their treatment.”
Community Matters
Why you should care: On a recent visit, Fox 9 captured the selfless efforts of Drs. Hermanson and Gomez as they performed crucial procedures in a clinic that has already shut down.
“We’re here today,” Mary expressed, filled with hope. “I just don’t want to be the last patient here.”
The board is actively seeking innovative ideas to secure funding and keep the clinic afloat.
As it stands, the lights may dim for good by year’s end if a solution isn’t found.
