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The Central Massachusetts Oral Health Initiative (CMOHI): a successful public–private community health collaboration
Author(s) -
Silk Hugh,
Gusha John,
Adler Ben,
Sachs Leicher Ellen,
Finison Lorenz J.,
Huppert Michael E.,
Stille Sheila,
Yost Janice B.
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
journal of public health dentistry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.64
H-Index - 63
eISSN - 1752-7325
pISSN - 0022-4006
DOI - 10.1111/j.1752-7325.2010.00188.x
Subject(s) - general partnership , medicine , public health , dental public health , private practice , medicaid , oral health care , oral health , legislature , health care , health policy , nursing , family medicine , medical education , business , political science , finance , law
Objectives: The Central Massachusetts Oral Health Initiative (CMOHI) aimed to improve access to quality oral health care in central Massachusetts. Methods: A broad‐based public and private organization partnership with local and national funding created a steering committee to organize school administrators, community leaders, and a medical school to collaborate on five goals: advocate for changes in oral health policy, increase oral health care access, provide school‐based dental services for underserved children, establish a Dental General Practice Residency, and educate medical professionals about oral health. Results: A state legislative Oral Health Caucus helped secure sought‐after policy improvements; more regional dentists now accept Medicaid; community health center capacity to provide dental services was expanded; school‐based programs were designed and delivered needed dental services; a dental residency was created; and methods of educating medical professionals were established. Conclusions: Significant sustainable gains in oral health care access were created through our multifaceted approach, ongoing evaluation and communication, coordination of CMOHI partner resources, and collaboration with other involved parties.