Craig Celebrates Ribbon-Cutting of East Side Dental Clinic

Today, state Senator Hearcel F. Craig (D-Columbus) joined community and faith leaders, healthcare professionals, and local residents to celebrate the grand opening of a new dental clinic at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center Outpatient Care East.

"Throughout my time in public service, improving the well-being of our Columbus residents has always been my top priority,” said Craig. “I am very proud to have advocated for the clinic at the Statehouse for several years. Good dental health is critical, especially for children; it builds a foundation for better overall health and confidence, leading to more success in the classroom and workplace. By investing in this clinic, we are not only supporting the well-being of our neighbors but also building ladders of opportunity for families and individuals to ensure a better future for our communities."

The dental clinic is part of Ohio State’s Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), a nurse practitioner-led primary care practice run by the Ohio State College of Nursing that provides health care to individuals regardless of their ability to pay. In partnership with the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, the dental clinic is part of the newly expanded Total Health Care Center, offering integrated access to comprehensive physical and mental health services for medically underserved communities.

Senator Craig successfully secured $1.2 million in state funding to support the project.