Oral health is a crucial component of overall health and well-being, yet it is often overlooked. In Kentucky, like many other states, oral health is a pressing concern. Poor oral health has been linked to a range of serious health conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. Throughout 2023, Kentucky Oral Health Coalition (KOHC) is conducting an oral health landscape assessment to better understand the current state of oral health in Kentucky.
The purpose of this landscape assessment is to illustrate the current state of oral health in Kentucky, including factors like the dental workforce, access to care, and oral health literacy. The assessment will also identify gaps and barriers. Based on the findings, KOHC will highlight recommendations to improve oral health outcomes for Kentuckians.
To conduct the oral health landscape assessment, KOHC is undertaking a range of activities beginning with data collection. This will include gathering existing data on oral health indicators both nationally and in Kentucky, and development and implementation of qualitative data collection through focus groups, surveys, and interviews. After completing data analysis, we will publish various reports from the findings, and promote among oral health stakeholders and policymakers to address concerns through systems change.
We Want to Hear From You!
KOHC is calling on our members and oral health stakeholders to participate in the landscape assessment by completing our survey and sharing this opportunity among your networks. Participation from oral health providers, community members, and other stakeholders is essential to the success of this oral health landscape assessment.
