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.