Charlotte Laguna
Charlotte Laguna joined CADF in January 2012 as a Program Coordinator. She oversees the Central Health and HAAM dental programs and works with Spanish-speaking patients in the St. Vincent De Paul program.
A recent transplant to Austin from Chicago, Charlotte previously worked in psychology and neuroscience laboratories at the University of Illinois. Here’s what she had to say about the rewards of her new position and the amazing dentists that make it all possible:
What is your favorite part about your job at CADF?
I love being able to provide patients in need with a referral to a dentist who I know will provide the very best care. I also enjoy getting to know the HAAM and Central Health patients.
How do patients benefit from CADF programs?
Our patients are incredibly grateful and often share with me the details of how the dental care has changed their lives. Just a few days ago, one of our DDS patients called to tell me how much she appreciated everything we were doing. Her treatment wasn’t even completed and she was in tears. Our amazing volunteer dentists had extracted several of her broken teeth and provided her with dentures. She was able to eat solid foods again, something she hadn’t done in a very long time. When she told me about how much she enjoyed a meal with her grandchildren, I was overjoyed and I know none of it would have been possible without are devoted volunteers.
Is it easy for dentists to volunteer and participate in the Central Health or HAAM programs?
It is super easy for dentists to sign up and accept patients from both Central Health and HAAM. I try to make it as seamless as possible for dentists and patients. Just call me at (512) 971-8005 or email me at charlotte.cadf@gmail.com.
What is the difference between the Central Health and HAAM programs?
The Central Health program is a partnership with the City of Austin that connects CADF dentists to low-income patients who need basic dental care. The Health Alliance for Austin Musicians (HAAM) program is a partnership with the St. David’s Foundation that connects CADF dentists to uninsured working musicians who need basic dental care. Dentists treat patients in their own offices and receive a modest reimbursement for eligible services provided to patients.
Does CADF still need volunteers for these programs?
We need dentists for all of our programs, but our area of greatest need is for dentists who practice close to where our Central Health and HAAM patients live in South and East Austin. Many of our patients do not have their own cars so transportation is a barrier.
If you are a dentist and are interested in treating patients through with either the HAAM or Central Health program, please contact Charlotte at (512) 971-8005.
