Health Care Heroes 2025
VOLUNTEER: Mary McCabe
Rhode Island Free Clinic volunteer dental director
What led you to choose health care as your profession? I originally sought a career in social work and worked for several years as a rehabilitation counselor. I had always been drawn to dentistry and later decided to study dentistry. Since I have always worked in public health settings, I have combined my social work and dentistry backgrounds and have enjoyed a career in community dental centers.
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How have you helped boost the quality of access to health care? I have recruited and supported dental staff who provide quality comprehensive and specialty care to our patients at the free clinic. We have expanded our range of services since I first began at the free clinic in 2018. We provide a true “medical-dental home” and collaborate with our medical colleagues.
What is the biggest challenge you and your organization are facing this year? Funding is an ongoing challenge, as we do not accept insurance. We are grateful for Delta Dental [of Rhode Island] funding and apply for grants to continue funding the dental department. Dental materials and supplies are expensive, as there are many disposable items we use daily.
Are you confident patient access and quality of care will improve in Rhode Island over the next five years? Why or why not? I am confident that our leaders will see the value of preventive care, both medical and dental, and the savings associated with prevention. I am hopeful that state and city leaders will recognize the important role of the Rhode Island Free Clinic, and particularly the dental department. We average 35-40 visits per week, including surgery and root canal appointments.
