Focus Areas
In 2019, AIDPH leadership conducted a strategic planning process that analyzed the current and evolving oral health needs of underserved populations. Seeing clear gaps in the infrastructure and available resources, AIDPH pivoted our approach to close those gaps by adopting a health equity lens. Four core communities of focus arose from this evaluation: rural people, veterans, LGBTQIA+ people, and people living with disabilities. Since that time, AIDPH adopted a clear mission to empower communities to advance their oral health through research, education, and advocacy.
Veterans
Of the 20 million veterans living in the United States, about half are eligible for some form of medical care through the Veteran Health Administration (VHA). Unfortunately, 85% of veterans who walk into a VHA healthcare appointment may walk out with dental pain due to limited eligibility for receiving dental care. This profound lack of access and resulting disparity drives AIDPH to respond with a multi-faceted approach to advancing equitable oral health for veterans.
LGBTQIA+
Queer people have been marginalized and historically excluded from healthcare systems due to stigma and discrimination. AIDPH’s research found that, in general, while oral health professionals feel comfortable working with LGBTQIA+ people in both a personal and professional capacity, they are least comfortable around transgender people. AIDPH promotes culturally affirming care for queer people through our research and communication campaigns.
Rural
For rural communities, AIDPH is committed to bridging the vast oral health divide that leaves these areas underserved and overlooked. Rural populations face unique challenges, including limited access to dental care professionals, long distances to healthcare facilities, and a higher prevalence of oral health issues compared to urban areas
Disabilities
People with disabilities face unique challenges in accessing comprehensive oral health care, a cornerstone of our focus at the American Institute of Dental Public Health. Recognizing that disabilities can range widely in type and severity, we prioritize inclusive research and education initiatives designed to break down barriers and tailor care to individual needs.
REPORT
Our Impact
Explore the AIDPH Impact Report 2022 to find videos, stories, and statistics about how we’re improving the oral health system through our collaborative work in research, improvement, policy and advocacy, and education.
