A recent article published by Becker’s Dental Review using Department of Labor statistics revealed that Texas ranks at the bottom when it comes to the number of dental hygienists per capita in the country. New Hampshire ranks number one with 105.33 per 100,000 population, while Texas, unbelievably, only has 37.16 dental hygienists per 100,000 population.
With Texas already grappling with underserved areas in healthcare and dental services, this shortage further exacerbates an already difficult situation. Many rural areas face challenges in accessing basic dental care, and the lack of dental hygienists is only making it harder to close that gap.
Another financial burden
Further, this staffing crisis drastically affects Medicaid dental practices and raises significant concerns about their viability. Trying to attract qualified staff with financial incentives increases practice costs that are already bloated by inflation and dwindling patient rolls, which is another reason the fee schedule needs to be increased.
Increased burnout
This staff shortage and financial crisis are leading to burnout among professionals. Dental offices are closing, but we are having a hard time getting a real estate professional or anyone to go on the record about it. The feedback is that they are worried that any publicity about the situation will further depress the sale price of practices already on the market.
Ouch!