Elevated Community Health to Assume Operations of Summit County’s Only Pediatric Dental Office
Elevated Community Health, a prominent healthcare nonprofit in central Colorado, has announced its acquisition of Summit County’s sole pediatric dental practice, ensuring that essential dental services for children and young adults remain accessible to local families. The practice, previously operated by Dr. Malcolm Strange of the Pediatric Dental Group of Colorado, will be rebranded as Elevated Pediatric Dental and is slated to officially open its doors on September 4, 2025.
Dr. Malcolm Strange, who has been a staple in Summit County’s dental community since the 1990s, decided to transition the ownership of the satellite office to Elevated Community Health to allow him to concentrate on his primary practice on the Front Range. “I have always valued the opportunity to serve the families in this region, and I believe Elevated Community Health is well-equipped to carry on this important work,” Dr. Strange stated. Josh Cogdill, CEO of Elevated Community Health, echoed this sentiment, underscoring the organization’s commitment to maintaining high standards of care. “We are excited to continue offering these vital services to families in the area,” he affirmed.
The newly established Elevated Pediatric Dental will cater to families across multiple counties, including Summit, Lake, Park, Grand, Eagle, Chaffee, and Clear Creek. Given the absence of alternative pediatric-focused dental services in the vicinity, Cogdill remarked on the organization’s mission to provide ongoing access to specialized care, emphasizing the importance of community-oriented health services.
Stepping into the role of lead dentist at Elevated Pediatric Dental is Dr. DeAnna Drake, who arrives with over five years of dedicated pediatric dental experience. Dr. Drake has personal ties to Summit County, having spent her teenage years skiing in the area, and she has recently relocated there permanently. “Dr. Drake’s extensive experience makes her well-poised to navigate the unique challenges that pediatric dentistry presents,” remarked Cogdill. With a solution-oriented approach, Dr. Drake aims to create positive dental experiences for her young patients, often employing tailored strategies for those with special needs or apprehensions about dental visits.
To enhance the facility’s environment, Elevated Pediatric Dental will receive funding for renovations aimed at creating a fun, child-friendly atmosphere. Local parents, like Ralph Pacite, have voiced their appreciation for such spaces, noting that colorful and engaging environments significantly contribute to their children’s comfort and willingness to attend dental appointments.
Elevated Pediatric Dental will complement the existing dental services provided through Elevated Community Health’s School Based Health Centers, where hygienists actively provide preventive services, including cleanings, oral health screenings, and referrals for more extensive care under the SMILES Program.
Elevated Community Health, previously known as Summit Community Care Clinic, has been a vital healthcare resource in the region for over three decades. What began as a volunteer-run free clinic has evolved into a comprehensive federally qualified health center, offering a range of services including primary care, behavioral health, and now, pediatric dental services. The organization funds its operations through a combination of local, state, and federal resources, as well as grants and private donations.
For more information about Elevated Pediatric Dental and its services, visit elevatedch.org.
