Marquette University School of Dentistry is broadening its commitment to oral health access in Wisconsin through a new partnership with HealthNet of Rock County. The collaboration, which began during the spring 2026 semester, establishes HealthNet as an external rotation site for fourth-year dental students, offering valuable clinical experience while addressing critical needs in Janesville and surrounding rural communities.
This expansion of Marquette’s external rotation program is particularly significant given the documented barriers to dental care faced by residents in rural areas. HealthNet of Rock County, as the only free and charitable clinic in Rock County, provides essential medical, dental, and behavioral health services to those who might otherwise go without. HealthNet of Rock County serves as a crucial resource for individuals and families in need.
The external rotation program allows D4 students to provide direct patient care under the supervision of a licensed dentist, known as a preceptor. Dr. Ana Nawaz, a dentist at HealthNet, will serve as the primary preceptor for Marquette students during their one-week rotations. This hands-on experience is designed to prepare future dentists for the realities of practicing in diverse community settings.
“This partnership is incredibly meaningful for our students and Marquette University School of Dentistry,” said Dr. Le’erin Voss, director of externships. “It allows future dentists to serve a deserving community while seeing firsthand the impact of expanding access to care and improving oral health for patients in southern and rural Wisconsin.”
Expanding Access to Dental Care in Southern Wisconsin
HealthNet of Rock County’s role extends beyond simply providing dental services. it actively addresses the broader health needs of the community. The clinic integrates oral health care with medical and behavioral health services, recognizing the interconnectedness of overall well-being. This holistic approach is particularly important in rural areas where access to specialized care can be limited. According to HealthNet’s dental clinic information, the partnership with Marquette Dental School aims to attract new dentists to the Janesville area.
Marquette’s commitment to community outreach is demonstrated by its growing network of external rotation sites. HealthNet of Rock County joins existing locations in Appleton, Eau Claire, Elkhorn, Milwaukee, Oconomowoc, and Waukesha, providing students with a range of clinical experiences across the state. The program’s success relies on the dedication of licensed dentists willing to serve as preceptors, guiding and mentoring the next generation of dental professionals.
The Value of External Rotations for Dental Students
External rotations are a cornerstone of Marquette University School of Dentistry’s curriculum, offering students a unique opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world settings. These rotations expose students to diverse patient populations and practice models, fostering adaptability and a commitment to serving underserved communities. The experience gained at sites like HealthNet of Rock County is invaluable in shaping well-rounded and compassionate dentists.
The partnership also benefits HealthNet of Rock County by providing additional dental care capacity and fostering relationships with future healthcare providers. This collaborative approach strengthens the clinic’s ability to meet the evolving needs of the Janesville community and beyond. A post on HealthNet of Rock County’s Facebook page highlights the partnership as “an incredible example of community partnership in action.”
Licensed dentists interested in becoming preceptors with Marquette University School of Dentistry are encouraged to contact Dr. Voss for more information. This partnership represents a significant step forward in addressing oral health disparities and ensuring access to quality dental care for all Wisconsinites.
As Marquette’s dental students gain experience at HealthNet of Rock County and other external rotation sites, the program is poised to continue expanding its reach and impact. The ongoing success of these partnerships will depend on continued collaboration between the university, community clinics, and dedicated dental professionals.
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Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about healthcare and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
