SC Wisconsin News

Aspirus Health Foundation has pledged $500,000 to support the expansion of oral health services at Noble Community Clinics in Stevens Point. The funding will help equip 15 new dental operatories within Noble's planned expanded dental facility, which is part of an $18 million initiative aimed at improving access to care for underserved residents in Portage County and surrounding areas.

The funds are donor-restricted gifts entrusted to the Aspirus Health Foundation specifically for addressing oral health needs in Portage County. "This investment reflects Aspirus Health’s commitment to improving access to essential health care services for all," said Lanna Scannell, Vice President of System Philanthropy, Aspirus Health. She expressed gratitude towards donors who supported the oral health initiatives in the community.

Noble's expansion will more than double its dental care capacity in Stevens Point, aiming to serve approximately 15,000 patients annually. Currently, 80% of Noble’s dental patients are Medicaid recipients and an additional 20% are uninsured or underinsured. Laura Waldvogel, CEO of Noble Community Clinics, stated that the investment from Aspirus Health Foundation is transformative for the region and directly supports their mission to provide care for those facing barriers to oral health.

Noble’s dental services include preventive, restorative, and emergency care—reducing unnecessary emergency room visits and helping patients avoid serious consequences from untreated dental issues. The new facility will feature 21 treatment rooms designed to improve patient flow and experience.

Carrie Penovich, WI Southeast Division President of Aspirus Health, emphasized that the partnership embodies a shared mission to heal people and strengthen communities by equipping a state-of-the-art facility that ensures high-quality dental care for individuals and families in the region.