James Koelbl interviewed by WGME on story about Maine's dentist shortage

James J. Koelbl, D.D.S., M.S., M.J., dean of the College of Dental Medicine, was interviewed by WGME13 news for a Nov. 10, 2011 story about Maine's dentist shortage.

WGME cited a new study that found Maine has the worst dentist-to-population ratio in the country. The story looked at several options that might address the shortage and noted that "it's hopeful a new dental school at the University of New England, the first in Northern New England will train future dentists who will decide to stay in Maine." 

UNE's program, scheduled to open with its first class in fall 2013, is designed to help address shortage issues by placing its fourth-year students in satellite dental clinics in rural areas that provide services to underserved populations. The college will also will favor applicants who have shown an interest in community service.

"Then you have increased the chances that they will go back to their communities and provide health care," Dean Koelbl explained on camera.