Martinsburg VAMC Dental Residency program maintains excellence after 54 years
PRESS RELEASE
August 30, 2024
Martinsburg , WV — After a successful renewal survey in 2024 by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), the Martinsburg VAMC is looking forward to continuing its legacy of service to both Veterans and the dental training community alike.
“It’s important that the Martinsburg VAMC Dental Residency Program adheres to the highest standards and provides residents with the most comprehensive training possible,” said Dr. Henry Miller, Chief of Martinsburg’s Dental Service. “The CODA Accreditation shows that we do that, in addition to providing outstanding care for our Veterans.”
Since 1970, Martinsburg VA Medical Center has maintained a Dental residency program and has trained over 100 residents. Over the years, many have stayed at Martinsburg and made a career out of treating Veterans. Currently, all but two of the Dentists did some part of their training in Martinsburg.
Dr. Miller is one example. “Since early 1995, I have been a dental student, dental resident, staff prosthodontist, Dental Residency Director and Service Chief at the Martinsburg VAMC,” said Miller.
The very first resident in the program in 1970, Dr. Joseph Hancock, is still serving Veterans at Martinsburg after 54 years. He also rose through the leadership ranks, served as the Dental Residency Director for over 20 years and retired in 2012 as the Dental Service Chief. Today, he works part-time at Martinsburg treating Veterans who have experienced homelessness.
When Martinsburg opened its new, multi-story hospital building in 1984, Dr. John Capriolo was still in residency. He eventually became the Chief Dentist, a position he held for a number of years before returning to a staff dentist position.
“There are a lot of stories like Dr. Hancock and Dr. Capriolo and me. As residents, we didn’t just gain experience and leave. We stayed,” said Miller. “And we aren’t here because we have to be. We are here because we want to be, and I hope that shows in the care we provide Veterans.”
Of the 13 full-time and fee-basis staff dentists at Martinsburg, eight completed a residency through Martinsburg’s dental residency program.
David Porter, Public Affairs Officer - Office of the Medical Center Director
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