Kentucky Oral Health Coalition is excited to partner with the American Institute of Dental Public Health (AIDPH) for a special session on veteran oral health following our September coalition meeting. Learn more about AIDPH’s work and this exciting opportunity from guest author Annaliese Cothron, DHSc, MS, CPH.
AIDPH believes veterans cannot maintain good health without good oral health. Unfortunately, 76% of veterans who walk into a medical appointment in the VA may walk out with an unmet dental need as a result of strict eligibility for care. The lack of dental care is especially concerning given the well-established connection between oral health and systemic health; poor oral health is linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Veterans bear a disproportionate burden of disease and disability as a result of their military service. Expanding access to dental care is a critical step toward improving overall health outcomes for veterans.
AIDPH has been advancing solutions for veteran dental care since 2021, focusing on community-engaged research, state and national policy advocacy, and building community power from a diverse group of stakeholders. We believe that veterans in Kentucky deserve affordable, accessible, and high-quality dental care regardless of their VA eligibility. In partnership with the Kentucky Oral Health Coalition, AIDPH is sharing a state overview and facilitating discussion on access to care for veterans throughout the state. Kentuckians know their communities best and are equipped to identify gaps, address disparity, and generate next steps for veteran oral health. AIDPH is here to support your work and facilitate action through our Kentucky Veteran Oral Health Road Tour.
In connection with our 2023 Veteran Oral Health Hill Day, AIDPH developed state profiles for all 50 states to receive a snapshot of health indicators for their state. All profiles can be found at our research and advocacy hub, VetDentalData.org. According to AIDPH’s state data sheet for Kentucky, the state’s cumulative health report card is a grade of C. We’ll be able to review the full report card, state-based health metrics, and policy considerations during our tour stop in September. We hope you’ll join us then.
