A registered dental hygienist in alternative practice (RDHAP) offers an alternative to private practice, and in doing so addresses access to care barriers by serving vulnerable patient populations. With on-site dental hygiene, people who might go untreated can receive care. Examples of when house calls are beneficial:

Challenged mobility, cognitive impairment, limited manual dexterity, dry mouth, and complex medical histories are common in this population. Healthcare professionals understand that the health of the mouth impacts the health of the body, and that oral health is integral to sustained systemic health as well as quality of life.

Oral healthcare is an important part of prenatal care. Additionally, the health of each member in the family unit can be addressed so more time can be dedicated to recovery, bonding, etc.

To avoid complications like osteonecrosis of the jaw, meticulous oral hygiene is required of those who have undergone radiation therapy to the head and neck.

If an environment has been established at home that best suits the individual then it makes sense to bring care to them.

If getting to a dental office is too risky (e.g. injury from falling, getting hopelessly lost, etc.) then house calls are an alternative.

Eye exams are conducted in schools, why not dental hygiene, too? Parents don't have to take time off work, kids don't have to be removed from school, and disruption to the education process is minimized.

Serious life-altering complications can arise in those with a history of bisphosphonate use who require oral surgery. The best treatment is prevention in the form of good oral hygiene.

Returning to civilian life can be daunting, which is why bringing services to the individual in a familiar safe space can be helpful.

Decreasing oral bacteria prior to surgery facilitates recovery, and maintenance while in recovery is helpful if the ability to engage in the activities of daily living are compromised.

House calls are suitable for those who find it challenging to come into a dental office. Caregivers are often the primary caretaker and unable to leave those in their charge unattended, which makes caring for themselves difficult.

There are various reasons why a person might require a dentist. For non-emergencies, patients can either go to a dentist or have a dentist brought to them. That dentist can either be someone Julie chooses or someone the patient chooses. If the patient has a dentist they would like to be seen by then Julie is happy to work with the existing dental team.

No more than when referring to any other specialist. Julie carries her own professional liability insurance. Referral slips are always welcome.

Dental hygienists (i.e., license RDH) who work in dental offices are employees who work for dentists. Dental hygienists who do house calls (i.e., license AP) are independent contractors who work with dentists depending on the needs of the patient. Julie uses both licenses.

Julie is an out-of-network provider. As a courtesy, Julie submits a claim on the patient’s behalf and the insurance reimbursement goes directly to the insured, which is why payment is due when services are rendered. Julie can submit claims to DentiCal or Medicare.