In August 2020, the American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) granted accreditation to the Alaska Dental Therapy Education Program (ADTEP).  A monumental step in advancing oral health equity, especially for Tribal communities, the recognition is a first for the mid-level dental education program which has continued to bring community-driven oral health solutions to communities across the state.   Once considered controversial, ADTEP started in 2004 certificate education program at ANTHC to hire full-time trained and qualified dental health professionals, in communities where doctorate-level dentists usually only visit locations once per year. Dental therapy is a proven step to expand cost-effective access to ...

Early on in the COVID-19 pandemic response, ANTHC staff recognized the need to take action to slow this virus from spreading in our communities. To achieve this, we knew we must detect infections early. By mid-March staff were preparing to test and ensure that our people had access to testing across the state.  ANTHC constructed a drive-thru and walk-up testing site by early April, invested in additional laboratory diagnostic equipment, and helped secure rapid testing equipment for our regional Tribal health partners. All patients, ANTHC staff and family members, important community partner organizations and their staff were eligible for ...