Today, as part of its Driving Greater Diversity in the Oral Health Workforce campaign, the Delta Dental Institute announced $980,000 in funding to the newest class of awardees of the Delta Dental Oral Health Diversity Fund, the first national fund aimed at encouraging underrepresented school-aged children to pursue a career in oral health. The six awardees are: American Dental Education Association, Diversity in Dentistry Mentorships, Inc., NAF, National Dental Association, Planet Smilez, Inc., and the Society of American Indian Dentists.
“Delta Dental is committed to supporting the next generation of diverse oral health professionals. We are proud to announce our second class of Delta Dental Oral Health Diversity Fund awardees. These programs provide school-aged children from underrepresented communities with access to mentors and innovative educational opportunities that pave the way toward careers in oral health,” said James W. Hutchison, president & CEO of Delta Dental Plans Association. “It is inspiring to see the interest and excitement these programs are creating. We look forward to continuing to support solutions that advance the oral health workforce.”
Research has shown that racial and ethnic diversity among health professionals is linked to better patient satisfaction and improved health outcomes. However, the current oral health workforce does not reflect that diversity; fewer than 10% of dentists are Black, Hispanic, or American Indian/Alaska Native, while those same groups are far more likely to practice in underserved communities.
The 2024 award recipients of the Delta Dental Oral Health Diversity Fund are:
“Delta Dental is thrilled to support organizations that inspire students through mentorships and learning, which is essential to fostering a more equitable healthcare environment,” said Dr. Joseph Dill, DDS, MBA, Head of Dental Science at the Delta Dental Institute and Chief Dental Officer at the Delta Dental Plans Association. “We commend all of this year’s recipients for their commitment to shaping a more diverse and accessible oral health profession.”
To address the needs of the diverse communities we serve and to contribute to more equitable health outcomes, Delta Dental launched the Driving Greater Diversity in the Oral Health Workforce campaign in 2023, including the establishment of the Delta Dental Oral Health Diversity Fund.
Source: www.deltadentalinstitute.com
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