“Many of these children who may have not seen a dentist have huge problems within their mouths.”
Paul Hilliker, board member of the Michigan Association of Nurse Anesthetists, says Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists are critical in addressing the growing gap in pediatric and special needs dental care.
For many children, particularly those with developmental disabilities, special needs, or extreme anxiety, general anesthesia is a necessity.
“There is definitely an access to care issue. People have stated wait times up to two years at U of M, and that is one of the only spots that many special needs children and adults can go.”
Recent policy expanded the types of facilities where anesthesia can be safely administered such as surgical centers and outpatient settings.
“It's more efficient. It is definitely safe. We've made it safe by providing the right equipment, the right medications, and of course, the right personnel at bedside or chair side.”
Hilliker warns federal policies could limit financial aid for CRNA students, and restricting the pipeline of new professionals could lead to provider shortages, longer wait times, and decreased access to care in outpatient and pediatric settings.
“We've provided that screening for all children. We just need to open the doors and find a solution to provide the care for all children.”
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