Community
26 July, 2024
Miles of smiles at JCU clinic
MORE than 80,000 patients in North Queensland have healthier smiles thanks to a vital service provided by James Cook University dental clinics.
JCU Dental Clinic has officially treated over 80,000 patients across its Cairns and Townsville campuses, “a remarkable milestone”, according to JCU director of clinical studies Professor John Abbott.
“It's a testament to the clinic's commitment to providing high-quality dental care and its dedication to serving the community and providing clinical training to JCU’s dental students,” he said.
“This milestone also highlights the importance of access to affordable and specialised healthcare services, particularly in regional areas where patients may have limited access to dental care.”
The Cairns clinic first opened its doors at JCU’s Nguma-bada (Smithfield) campus in 2012, with most patients being pensioners and concession card holders.
Prof Abbott said dental students benefitted enormously from the clinics through hands-on experience, with the clinics having so far helped produce 760 dentistry graduates – each with over 2000 hours of clinical practice.
“Student feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the clinic's learning environment, which allows them to make mistakes and learn from them in a safe and supportive atmosphere,” he said.
Retired pensioner from Yorkeys Knob and patient of JCU Dental Clinic since its inception Judy Carrol said she had an excellent experience.
• JCU is throwing the doors open of its Nguma-bada (Smithfield) campus to the public for its first in-person open day in five years, tomorrow from 10am to 2pm.
