WORCESTER—UMass Memorial Health’s Craniofacial Clinic at the Children’s Medical Center and Fresh Start Surgical Gifts have announced a partnership to broaden access to craniofacial care for underserved children.
This unique collaboration allows UMass Memorial to offer more specialized care to pediatric patients, especially those facing financial and logistical barriers, while advancing the clinic’s goal of providing equitable access to health services, the hospital said in an announcement.
Through the Fresh Start Patient Care Program, the partnership provides comprehensive craniofacial, dental, and orthodontic treatment for children and adolescents under 21 who otherwise lack access to these essential services. By making dental and orthodontic care available to patients with limited resources, the program helps prevent future medical issues and contributes to a higher quality of life for young patients.
Dr. Joyce McIntyre, chief of craniofacial surgery at UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center, emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating in a press release, “We are committed to advancing health equity and ensuring that every child has access to life-changing care. This collaboration not only helps our young patients avoid future medical complications but also improves their quality of life.” Over the next decade, nearly 300 infants, children, and adolescents are expected to benefit from this program, reinforcing the partnership’s long-term commitment to pediatric care.
“Having a presence in Massachusetts is a dream come true, giving many more children hope for a brighter future,” said Shari Brasher, CEO of Fresh Start Surgical Gifts, in a statement.
The program includes dedicated resources, such as a Patient Support Fund to assist with post-surgical care, equipment, and transportation. With UMass Memorial’s Clinical Care Coordinator working closely with each patient’s family, the program provides personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each child.
UMass Memorial and Fresh Start say they hope this partnership will make a lasting difference for children in Massachusetts, enabling them to lead healthier lives with renewed confidence. The initiative exemplifies the potential of collaborative healthcare partnerships to create meaningful, positive change within local communities.
Send press releases to Charlene Arsenault at carsenault@theworcesterguardian.org
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