Past and present ROP students from the Morongo Unified Registered Dental Assisting program donated their skills in conjunction with Los Médicos Voladores (The Flying Doctors) on Sept. 22. The Flying Doctors is a 100 percent volunteer-based, non-religious, nonprofit organization that aims to improve the health and well-being of geographically diverse people through education and the provision of no-cost, high-quality medical, dental and optometric clinics. Visiting such areas as Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Asia, the Coachella Valley visit is the only stop in the United States.
Using the training gained in the Registered Dental Assisting course, ROP students worked in patient intake, instrument sterilization, patient education and as chairside assistants for up to 50 dental professionals including dentists, dental surgeons and dental hygienists. Over 400 patients received dental treatment. This was a great opportunity for students to practice the skills learned in the classroom while giving back to the community.
 
“They all worked together as a team and showed such professionalism. I am so proud of them,” said instructor Laura Grabow.
 
Due to their skills and training, the ROP Dental Assisting students have been asked to participate in the next Flying Doctors visit to Coachella Valley this spring.