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The
Connecticut Oral Health Initiative serves as the unifying voice on
oral health issues in Connecticut. We participate in public awareness
campaigns directed at Connecticut's young families, decision makers,
and providers. We identify and educate champions for oral health among
policy makers and frame the issues of oral health for effective presentation
to decision makers. We assure
that oral health agents act responsibly in meeting their obligations to Connecticut's
families.
COHI's Recent Accomplishments
Public Education: COHI produced and distributed
an oral health advocacy Public Service Announcement for television with WTNH
Channel
8, in English and in Spanish, which was viewed by thousands of state residents.
Communication: COHI kept the state informed
on new developments in oral health policy through our monthly newsletter and
newly redesigned popular website, www.ctoralhealth.org, now available in English
and in Spanish.
Legislation: COHI initiated and saw passed
An Act Concerning the Delivery of Dental Services. The law simplifies the delivery
of dental care within Medicaid and requires DSS to submit its plan to implement
any major Medicaid contract changes to both the Human Services and Appropriations Committees
for
public input.
The Budget: COHI defended oral health services
by attending and participating in Legislative Appropriations, Human Service and
Public Health Committee hearings in the Connecticut legislature. COHI protected
funds for crucial oral health safety net programs serving adults and children
in the Connecticut state budgets for 2003, 2004 and 2005.
Collaboration: COHI continued to raise awareness
about oral health care and gain support for its policy agenda through its participation
in the meetings
of coalitions, including: the CT Early Childhood Educational Alliance; Head Start;
One Connecticut; Health Care for All; and the Medicaid Defense Group. As a direct
result of COHI's education efforts, these groups have included oral health in
their agendas.
Policy Education/Action: COHI is working with the
Connecticut Health Foundation to organize and educate the eight oral health collaboratives across
Connecticut about key policy issues and effective advocacy.
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