An OCF South Coast Regional Action Initiative in Coos and Curry Counties
For the first time in 40 years, tooth decay is on the rise among young children. If left untreated, it can have serious effects on their long-term health, educational success, and self-image.
The South Coast Regional Action Initiative Committee is focused on preventing dental disease. To that end, it has sought recommendations on needs and strategies from dentists, healthcare professionals, school superintendents, community leaders, and other key stakeholders.
As a result of these discussions, the committee has identified the critical need for a local dental health coordinator who will:
- Work to build partnerships between schools and dental professionals
- Recruit and organize volunteers
- Schedule mobile dental van visits
- Increase public outreach efforts
- Develop infrastructure for a regional referral system that will improve children’s access to dental care
In December 2009, the committee created the South Coast Children’s Dental Health Initiative. This Initiative will help to ensure children are educated about oral hygiene, given preventive care, screened for common dental problems, and referred to a dentist when necessary. The committee is currently working to recruit dentists who are willing to participate in The Children’s Program through ODS, volunteer with a mobile dental van, or treat pre-screened children at their clinics.
Because financial concerns are a frequent cause of inadequate dental care, the committee is also exploring options for a financial assistance program that would help to offset the cost of co-pays, medications, and transportation.
Community support for this Initiative has been strong. On April 10th, the Curry Health Foundation and the Gold Beach Rotary Club held their annual “High on Health” gala. This event raised $21,700 for dental services for Curry County children, thanks in large part to the efforts of OCF South Coast Leadership Council member Dale Thomas.
In addition, Leadership Council member Elizabeth Day, who is also a member of the Sprague Family Foundation, was instrumental in securing a donation of $40,000 to fund start-up costs for the Initiative.
To get involved or contact us
If you are interested in learning more about or collaborating with OCF’s RAI committees, contact Melissa Durham, statewide RAI coordinator: mdurham@oregoncf.org.