| Delivering Smiles Inc. is owned and operated by Rhoda Howell-Gonzales RDH, BSDH, RDHAP a Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP). Delivering Smiles is a private practice that provides and coordinates dental care, while focusing on equitable access to care for vulnerable populations.
Our mission is to advance oral health for all
Rhoda, has a diverse career as a Dental Provider, Instructor, Director of Quality, Dental Consultant, Researcher/Writer and Business owner. She has worked closely with Local and State organizations to improve oral health. As a Dental Consultant to the Central Valley Regional Center, Rhoda implemented strategies to improve oral health outcomes and patient experiences for individuals with special needs.
Rhoda spearheaded and saw to completion Free Denti-Cal Youth Services, a Local Dental Pilot Project, as part of the Dental Transformation Initiative in Fresno County which has coordinated dental care for over 14,000 children in Fresno County. Care Coordination is a common theme in her endeavors.
As a Director of Quality for Anthem serving the Medicaid population in California, she focused on improving HEDIS quality measures by implementing “Patient-Centered Care Consultants” statewide and oversaw the CAHPS survey (Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems).
While working closely with Public Health Departments and Medical/Dental Providers, Rhoda has advanced holistic health outcomes through Oral Health Education and Fluoride Varnish Application Certification trainings to Primary Care Providers. Most recently she has implemented a School-Based Sealant Program in elementary schools.
Rhoda serves her community through volunteering and sitting on multiple boards. She has helped increase the workforce available to provide care through the legislative process, serving as Government Relations Council (GRC) Chair for California Dental Hygiene Association (CDHA).
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"Healthy teeth and supporting structures of the mouth are important for generally healthy people, but are essential for those with illness or deteriorating conditions."
-surgeon general report
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