____________________________________________________
Description
- collaboration of local community partners and dental health professionals
- community-based outreach programs
- dentists and members of dental staff travel throughout the community to improve the oral health of underserved patients
- programs vary greatly based on the needs of the community and funding
- educate children on oral health and nutrition while providing a basic screening
- some programs deliver cleanings, fluoride varnish, sealant, fillings and extractions
- Examples:
→ Give Kids a Smile Day
https://oda.org/community-involvement/give-kids-a-smile/
→ The Ohio Project
http://dent.osu.edu/ohioproject/about.php
→ Dental H.O.M.E. (Health Outreach Mobile Experience) Coach
http://www.dent.osu.edu/ohioproject/coach.php
Theoretical Basis
- Most forms of community based outreach programs include individual change theories
- These programs stress the importance of knowledge, beliefs and attitudes towards a particular behavior
- Health Belief Model (HBM): emphasizes individual beliefs of the patients participating in the programs and is primarily focused on the disease
Target Group
- school-aged children, especially from underserved areas
- varies based on the outreach program
- most programs target individuals (children and adults) who do not receive or do not have access to regular dental care