Local and Global Oral Health Immersion Programs. 0 Credit Hours

Catalog description

This Selective provides dental students with immersive experiences in both local and global oral health settings. Emphasizing population health and community engagement, the program offers experiential learning guided by UTHSA faculty, staff, and community partners. Students learn to apply their cultural humility and patient management training in evidence-based primary oral healthcare settings and gain insights into healthcare delivery across cultural and economic settings. The immersions broaden students' perspectives, strengthen professional growth, and highlight challenges and opportunities in community-based oral health. Reflection is encouraged throughout to promote thoughtful, patient-centered care. Sites include local clinics in San Antonio (SARHC, CUB, El Bari), border regions of South Texas (e.g., Del Rio), statewide outreach events (TMOMS), and global experiences in the Dominican Republic (international). Opportunities are offered on a first-come, first-served basis through the main organizers, such as the Christian Medical and Dental Association of San Antonio (CMDA), San Antonio Refugee Health Clinic, El Bari Community Health Center, and Texas Mission of Mercy. Enrollment is based on program capacity to ensure well-supported, high-quality experiences. All dental care is provided under the direct supervision of Dental School faculty, including adjunct faculty.