This month, the Marion County Hospital District (MCHD) is proud to recognize FreeD.O.M. Health Clinic, a trusted community partner advancing access to free dental, optical, and medical care for uninsured and under-insured residents across Marion County. Through MCHD’s Dental pillar, this long-standing collaboration has helped ensure that thousands of residents receive essential care at moments when they need it most.
A Partnership That Restores Health and Confidence
FreeD.O.M. Health Clinic, led by Executive Director Ann Burnett, provides mobile, community-based care focused on meeting people where they are. The clinic offers comprehensive services including dental exams, X-rays, triage, extractions (simple and surgical), restorative care, and root canals bringing a full spectrum of dental treatment directly to those who would otherwise go without.
Funded in part by the Marion County Hospital District, FreeD.O.M. Clinic’s dental program is a cornerstone of this partnership. According to Burnett, the support from MCHD has been “an absolute blessing,” enabling the clinic to touch the lives of Marion County residents “one smile at a time.”
On average, the clinic serves approximately 1,200 to 1,500 unique individuals each year, reflecting the scale and importance of this community-driven work.
Restoring Smiles and Changing Lives
One of the most impactful MCHD-supported initiatives has been the denture program, which has helped patients regain not only their oral health, but also their confidence and opportunity.
Burnett shared the story of a Marion County resident working in the service industry who had struggled professionally due to missing teeth. After receiving dentures through the program, her transformation was life-changing, leading to a job promotion and the ability to purchase her own vehicle. She later returned to thank the team, a powerful reminder that restoring a smile can open the door to a completely new future.
A Network of Volunteers and Community Partners
FreeD.O.M. Health Clinic’s impact is made possible through an extraordinary network of collaboration. The program is supported by volunteer dentists, medical professionals, and students, including faculty and trainees affiliated with the University of Florida College of Dentistry, who supervise and participate in care delivery.
Local dental professionals also contribute significantly, opening their practices and donating time and resources to support clinic operations. Community partners including churches, schools, and local organizations play a vital role in helping mobilize services throughout Marion County.
Strengthening Community Health Together
With more than a decade of service supported by the Marion County Hospital District, FreeD.O.M. Health Clinic continues to demonstrate the power of collaboration in addressing critical healthcare needs. Their work reflects a shared commitment to removing barriers to care, restoring dignity, and improving long-term health outcomes for vulnerable residents.
Learn more at https://freedomclinicusa.org/
