Iowa Veteran Oral Health
Understanding Outcomes and Opportunities
Oral health is critical to overall health and well-being. Marginalized, historically excluded, and under-served communities often disproportionately suffer from poor oral health as a result of social and political determinants of health. Veterans experience a disproportionate burden of disease and disability that negatively affects their oral health, their overall health, and their well-being. This report was developed to serve as a resource for key target audiences in Iowa including clinicians, advocates, health administrators, nonprofit organizations, researchers, and policy makers to help design and implement solutions.
A Report of Strategic and Actionable Recommendations for Iowa Stakeholders
This report published with support from the Delta Dental of Iowa Foundation assesses the oral health status of veterans living in Iowa using quantitative and qualitative data and noting gaps in available information and resources. It explores:
- Oral health outcomes, including prevalence of dental caries, gum disease, and tooth loss
- Access to dental care, including insurance coverage and cost of care
Associated chronic disease conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer - Cost of care, potential cost savings, areas of opportunity, and outstanding gaps
- Intersectional inequities experienced by specific populations of veterans
Iowa Summit on Veteran Oral Health
The Iowa Summit on Veteran Oral Health was held on August 13, 2024 in Des Moines, Iowa! This strategic planning session brought together a diverse group of stakeholders committed to improving dental care for Iowa’s veterans. Together, participants identified key concerns, formulated strategic solutions to address current and future challenges, and set clear, high-priority goals. Attendees left equipped with the tools, connections, and resources necessary to make impactful change across the state.
Virtual Community Forums
We’re hosting a series of virtual community forums to focus on the most relevant data, resources, and recommendations highlighted in the report. Designed as interactive events, these sessions will be tailored to the specific needs of Iowa oral health stakeholders, inviting them to co-create actionable next steps.
Improving the Oral Health of Iowa Veterans Through Policy
Improving the Oral Health of Iowa Veterans Through Integrated Care
Improving the Oral Health of Iowa Veterans Through Collaborative Action
July 23, 2024 | 12:00 pm CT
Community Voices on Veteran Oral Health in Iowa: Perspectives and Planning for Progress
Iowa Veteran Oral Health Interactive Dashboard
Data for this dashboard were sourced from an aggregated BRFSS dataset obtained from the State of Iowa.
