FQHC Handbook - Increasing access to dental care through public-private partnerships

In 2009, the U.S. Congress determined that federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and “look alikes” may contract with private dentists to provide dental services to health center patients in the dentists’ private offices. This determination resolved controversy over the allowability of the practice and encouraged adoption of contracting as an important approach to increasing dental care for underserved populations. The 2011 Handbook reflects changes in Federal law and policy since the first edition in 2003. It provides background on how contracting works, includes a model contract, and offers step-by-step options for implementation.

The Children's Dental Health Project produced this document with support from the California HealthCare Foundation.