DCG Continues Support of Costa Layman Health Fair

The DCG once again partnered with Augusta University and the College of Nursing to provide health care to farm workers during the 18th annual Costa Layman International Health Fair Outreach at Costa Farms in Trenton, South Carolina.

The work site program brought together a multitude of interdisciplinary faculty and students trained in rural healthcare to support individual farm workers in promoting healthcare prevention, standard lab work analysis, and appropriate referral services linked to the area’s Federally Qualified Health Centers that support migrant health.

Dr. Alan Furness, Associate Dean for Patient Services, described the benefit to students and residents participating in the health fair. “Public health dentistry and community outreach are crucial parts of dental education,” he said. “This event allows our students to gain valuable experience in providing care to a population that is often underserved.”

Hands-on experience during community outreach allows dental students to encounter diverse dental conditions and challenges that may not be encountered in a typical clinical setting. It enhances their clinical skills, problem-solving abilities and adaptability, ensuring they are well-prepared for their future careers as dental professionals.

Community outreach also provides students with a unique opportunity to develop cultural competence and communication skills. By interacting with patients from various backgrounds, they learn to tailor care to meet individual needs and values, promoting patient-centered treatment.

“By collaborating with other healthcare professionals, social workers and community organizations, students are encouraged to develop a sense of social responsibility and ethical awareness,” Furness said. “They understand the importance of addressing oral health disparities and advocate for improved access to dental care.”

Rural seasonal agricultural workers, predominantly Hispanic and Latinos, often face unique health challenges and health disparities due to the nature of their work, culture/language barriers, and a lack of healthcare continuity. Many use the emergency room for primary care, which can be costly and time-consuming. Common conditions affecting the population include heat and pesticide exposure/injury, animal bites, susceptibility to infectious disease and mental illness including depression, as well as chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and lung conditions.

In addition to the services provided by volunteers, the health fair also included educational sessions on topics such as health promotion, nutrition, and safety. The DCG is committed to providing healthcare to underserved populations, and they will continue to partner to host this event in the future.