Everyone deserves access to quality health care, no matter their income or where they live. Programs like the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) help by providing medical and dental coverage to millions. But challenges like too few providers, limited preventive care and rising costs make it harder for people to get the care they need. Solving these problems takes teamwork, creative solutions and a shared commitment to better health. This Expert Voices discussion brought together CEOs from federally qualified health centers, AHCCCS representatives, payors and nonprofits to discuss workforce challenges, preventive care and health care costs.
Strengthening the Health Care Workforce
In many communities across Arizona – especially rural areas – it’s hard to find a doctor or dentist. More students are going to medical school, but not enough residency programs exist to train them. This leads to provider shortages, stress and burnout. One solution is to expand medical training to include basic dental education. This would allow nurses, clinical staff and general practitioners to potentially provide dental screenings, fluoride varnish, referrals and education, making patients understand the importance of oral health and helping make care more accessible. Encouraging young people to join the health care field, improving training programs and adding new roles like dental therapists could also help fill the gaps.
As the Executive Director of the Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation, I have seen firsthand how partnerships can also make a difference in expanding access to care. We work closely with community health organizations, dental providers and educators to ensure that more Arizonans, especially children, seniors and underserved populations, receive the care they need. Oral health is often overlooked in larger health discussions, but by working together across industries, we can build a more integrated and accessible health care system for all.
The Importance of Preventive Care
Preventive care helps people stay healthy and reduces long-term health costs. Regular dental check-ups, for example, can catch small problems before they turn into serious conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Experts agree that adding preventive dental benefits for adults could make a big difference. But access is just as important as awareness. Providing transportation and teaching people about the value of preventive care could help more people get the services they need. Young adults, especially those ages 18 to 20, visit the dentist the least, making them a key group to reach.
Making Health Care More Affordable
When money and resources are limited, smart solutions matter. Expanding services at public health clinics and community centers could improve access, especially in rural areas. But health isn’t just about doctor visits. Good nutrition and education also play a big role. By investing in these areas, communities can help people stay healthier while reducing the strain on the health care system. Working together, health care providers, community leaders and policymakers can create a system that works better for everyone.
Moving Forward
Fixing health care challenges takes time, effort and teamwork. While there’s no quick solution, small steps can lead to big improvements. Expanding preventive care, supporting health care workers and making services more affordable can help more people get the care they need. By working together, Arizona can build a system that gives everyone, no matter their income, a chance at better health. The road ahead may not be easy, but every effort makes a difference in creating a stronger, healthier future for all.
This blog is part of the Expert Voices series. This series brings together leaders in health and wellness to talk about problems and solutions to improve communities. In this event, Arizona health care professionals had a lively conversation. They discussed ways to improve access to care for AHCCCS members by focusing on three key areas: workforce challenges, preventive care and health care costs. For more information about Expert Voices, contact Barb Kozuh at [email protected].
