Dental care in a socialized health system

Given the chronic, all-pervasive nature of dental disease and given the currently available methods of prevention and treatment, the only rational approach is a public delivery system. Such a system will function best and will be most responsive to people's needs if based upon local community control. At the same time, financing and operational guidelines should be a federal responsibility. The Dellums bill for a National Health Service is such a plan. This socialized program need not result in mediocrity and can be cost-effective in the provision of high quality dental care. There is nothing inherent in either government control or salaries practice which will led to inefficient and ineffective dentistry. In particular, prevention and health promotion can be given their rightful prominent place in the dental system. The organic ties between delivery and education will lead to the training of more appropriate numbers and types of health professionals. Career ladders will provide for advancement of health workers based upon performance and additional training. Unfortunately, such a program cannot function properly within our existing governmental and social system. However, some of iits goals can be achieved and discussion of its concept can lead to heightened awareness of future possibilities.