CDA Foundation Legislative Tours Shed Light on Student Loan Repayment Program

Assemblymember Nancy Skinner, from the 14th district, had a chance to see first hand how CDA Foundation Student Loan Repayment Grant Program recipient Teri Ly, DDS is making an impact in her community.

Assemblymember Skinner as well as staff  from Assemblymember Sandre Swanson and Senator Loni Hancock’s offices, visited Dr. Ly at La Clinica de La Raza clinic at Children’s Hospital in Oakland on January 30 as part of the CDA Foundation’s ongoing legislative tours.
Dr. Ly is one of the most recent recipients of the grant program, which provides up to $105,000 over three years toward repayment of student loans in exchange for a commitment to work in an underserved community.

California legislators have been invited to take tours of community health clinics in Oakland, Los Angeles and Auburn to gain insight into the workings of regional clinics and the role of the CDA Foundation Student Loan Repayment Grant program in increasing access to dental care.
“Access to quality health care remains a challenge for many Californians; dental health is no exception,” Skinner said. “Sadly, our children often get hit the hardest. La Clinica is a gem and I am honored that those in my district have access to such quality care.”

Ly is able to practice at La Clinica de La Raza because of the Foundation’s Student Loan Repayment Grant Program. “I do not believe any child should be denied care, and all children should be entitled to optimal care regardless of their socioeconomic background,” she said. “I am so thankful for the Foundation student loan repayment program that is allowing me to practice at La Clinica.” The clinic provides both medical and dental care, of which more than 95 percent of the patients served receive government assistance.

In Northern California, Assembly Member Ted Gaines recently toured the Chapa-De Indian Health Clinic in Auburn, where he met Nam Hoang, DDS, who received a Foundation grant in 2008.

“I am honored to tour this facility, which provides a much-needed service to the community,” Gaines said. “It is fantastic to see organizations like the CDA Foundation working to provide oral health services to hard-working families and those in need.” The clinic provides medical and dental care for more than 9,000 underserved individuals each year.

Having come from a family of 11 from Vietnam, Hoang fully understands the challenges of making ends meet and providing health and dental care for a family.

“I care deeply for my patients and insist they be treated with respect and dignity,” said Hoang. “It is so fulfilling to me to see my patients smile. That’s why I chose this profession – to serve others. The CDA Foundation Student Loan Repayment Grant made it possible.”

It’s estimated, based on yearly reports, that the first four grant recipients provide more than $500,000 each on an annual basis in dental care. That’s $1.5 million over their three year commitment to practice in an underserved area. It is anticipated that the three new grant recipients will provide $3.5 million per year, significantly adding to the number of children, aging adults and working families receiving oral health care in California.

For additional information about the Student Loan Repayment Grant Program, visit the Foundation Web site cdafoundation.org or contact Grants Administrator Jolene Murray, 800.232.7645 Ext. 4929 or jolene.murray@cda.org.