HOW REFERRALS WORK
Connecting People with Volunteer Dental Care
The ADA Dental Health Foundation works with registered charities, community organisations and volunteer dental professionals to connect eligible Australians with dental care that may otherwise be beyond their reach. Our referral process is designed to ensure support is directed to people who are experiencing genuine barriers to accessing treatment while providing a safe and coordinated experience for patients, volunteers and community partners.
Who Can Refer a Patient?
Patients cannot generally self-refer into our volunteer programs.
Referrals are submitted by registered charities, not-for-profit organisations and community support agencies that are actively supporting the individual. These organisations help confirm eligibility, provide ongoing support where required and assist patients throughout their treatment journey.
Who We Help
People referred to the Foundation may be experiencing:
Financial hardship
Homelessness or housing instability
Domestic and family violence
Mental health challenges
Recovery from alcohol or other drug dependency
Disability or chronic illness
Social isolation
Other significant barriers to accessing dental care
Step 1: Referral Submission
A registered charity or not-for-profit organisation submits a referral on behalf of a client. The referral includes information about the person's circumstances, oral health needs and eligibility for Foundation programs.
Step 2: Eligibility Assessment
The Foundation reviews the referral to determine eligibility and identify the most appropriate support pathway. Depending on the patient's needs, they may be matched with a volunteer dentist, allocated to a Dental Rescue Day®, or assessed for consideration through Rebuilding Smiles®.
Step 3: Volunteer Matching
Once approved, the Foundation works with its network of volunteer dental professionals and practices to identify a suitable match. Matching takes into account the patient's location, treatment needs and volunteer availability.
Step 4: Appointment Coordination
The Foundation coordinates communication between the volunteer practice, the referring organisation and the patient. Appointment details, documentation and any required support arrangements are organised prior to treatment.
Step 5: Treatment Delivery
Patients receive dental treatment provided by volunteer professionals who donate their time, expertise and practice resources. Depending on the program, treatment may be provided during a Dental Rescue Day®, through a series of appointments under Adopt a Patient®, or through the specialised Rebuilding Smiles® pathway.
Step 6: Ongoing Support
Throughout the process, patients continue to receive support from the referring organisation. This collaborative approach helps improve appointment attendance, treatment completion and long-term outcomes. In some programs, particularly Rebuilding Smiles®, support workers remain actively involved throughout the patient's treatment journey.
Why Community Referrals Matter
The Foundation's referral model ensures that support reaches people who are most in need while maintaining strong partnerships between community organisations and volunteer dental professionals. By working together, we can provide coordinated, compassionate care that improves oral health outcomes and helps restore confidence, dignity and wellbeing.