Mission of Mercy provides free medical, dental and vision care

The Illinois State Dental Society Foundation and CURE Network will co-host the second Mission of Mercy, or “MOM,” at the Lake County Fairgrounds, Peterson and Midlothian roads, Grayslake beginning at 6 a.m. Friday, June 8, and Saturday, June 9.

Nearly 1,500 volunteer dentists, hygienists, physicians, nurses, optometrists and others from throughout Illinois will provide an estimated $1 million in free basic dental, medical and vision care to patients who would not otherwise have access to necessary treatment.

“We are prepared to see 1,000 patients per day, and hope to accommodate more if we can,” said Dr. Mark Humenik, State MOM Chair. “In order to treat as many patients in the best way possible, we are offering three areas of services: dental, medical and vision. The patient’s priority condition will be served first.”

“Basic medical screenings include high blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, and women’s health, including breast exams and PAP smears. Vision professionals will conduct eye exams and screen for glaucoma and macular degeneration. Prescription eyeglasses will be made on site by Midwest Labs of Chicago,” adds Dr. Ken Nelson, Co-Founder and Chair of CURE Network.

Here are some important things that prospective patients should know:

Ÿ Not all dental services will be available. Emphasis will be on basic dental care, such as fillings, extractions and cleanings.

Ÿ No appointments will be taken.

Ÿ No preregistration is available.

Ÿ Care is provided on a first-come, first-served basis.

Ÿ Doors will open at 6 a.m.

Ÿ There are no income eligibility requirements; anyone can receive treatment.

Ÿ No false teeth (dentures) will be made.

Ÿ Patients with serious health problems may not be able to receive dental treatment. Issues may include extremely high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, and severe disabilities.

Ÿ If a medical issue is discovered during the initial screening process, the patient will be further evaluated.

Ÿ Patients may not receive all dental, medical and vision care that is needed; the most critical issues receive priority treatment.

Recommended items for patients to bring to MOM are:

Ÿ List of current medications and a one-day supply

Ÿ Baby supplies for a full day (diapers, formula, etc.)

Ÿ Eyeglasses (if you plan to visit the vision clinic)

Ÿ Something to help you pass the time, such as reading material, knitting, crossword puzzles, etc.

Ÿ Water and snacks

If a patient is in severe pain now, don’t wait until the Mission of Mercy. Seek treatment immediately.

The Mission of Mercy will serve to highlight the serious problem that Illinois citizens have in accessing dental and medical care.

The event will relieve some suffering, but it won’t solve the problem.

For information, visit http://www.ISDS.org.