The Palm Beach County Oral Health Coalition (PBCOHC) became a local initiative in 2007 as a result of the outcomes of a Dental Sealant pilot project sponsored by the Palm Beach County Health Department (PBCHD). The PBCHD data verified that a large number of children screened for the sealant project could not be administered dental sealants due to the presence of existing cavities. The sharing of this information provided a format for community leaders to discuss what could be done to improve the oral health of residence in Palm Beach County (PBC). Initially, the founding partners of the Coalition met informally to discuss disparities in oral health issues facing the underserved and uninsured populations in Palm Beach County. With continued discussion and interest from the community, they gradually expanded their membership and announced their first formal meeting in July 2007.
Since its inception in 2007, the PBCOHC has received administrative and financial support from the Quantum Foundation and administrative support from the Florida Public Health Institute from 2007- 2011.
Presently the Coalition is a standalone coalition consisting of over 20 community and state partners. The Coalition continues to expand their local, statewide and national partnerships to work on developing strategies that will increase access to oral health care for all residents in Florida.
For Important Resources, Updates, and Oral Health Information, please click the links below:
Exerpt from “Trying Hard is Not Good Enough,” by Mark Friedman
Palm Beach County Oral Health Coalition Strategic Plan
Presentation by Dr. Roderick King, “Working Together to Achieve Collective Impact”
Fluoridation Media Kit
Local and State Dental Provider Resources:
- PBC Oral Health Resource Guide
- Dental Resource Center (Developed by Palm Beach State College)
- Dental Access Resource Guide
Oral Health Articles and Press Releases:
- Oral Health New York Times Magazine
- Gaps in Florida’s Pediatric Care
- Oral Health Matters Press Release
- PEW Report December 2010
Pediatric Fluoride Varnish Project
Give Kids A Smile Day at Palm Beach State College (Video)
The School District of Palm Beach County Wellness Promotion 2009 Annual Report
The School District of Palm Beach County Wellness Promotion 2010 Annual Report
The School District of Palm Beach County Wellness Promotion 2011 Annual Report
The School District of Palm Beach County Wellness Promotion 2012 Annual Report