Each February, the American Dental Association (ADA) sponsors the month-long National Children’s Dental Health Month (NCDHM). The purpose of NCDHM is to raise awareness among children, their caregivers, teachers, and others about the importance of good oral health. The ADA believes that instilling “good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children to get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.” The ADA has multiple resources to help dental professionals, health care providers and educators nationwide promote the benefits of oral health. For more information, go to: http://www.ada.org/en/public-programs/national-childrens-dental-health-month/
On a local level, I want to give a big “shout out” to Kaiser Permanente Northwest. On February 7th, Kaiser, known for its integration of medical and dental services, is offering “Give Kids a Smile” clinics to low-income, uninsured, and underinsured children in Oregon and Southwest Washington. Seven dental offices (from Longview, Washington to Salem, Oregon), will provide free fluoride varnishes, dental sealants, and vaccinations on a first-come, first-serve basis to 800 children (for dental services) and 525 children (for vaccination services). For more information, go to: http://www.kaiserpermanentedentalnw.org/cb/
InnovaHealth Innovations provides consulting services to medical practices to help them be successful in today’s complex healthcare environment. You can reach IHI at: 503.341.0593.