History
In Spring 2003, the US Surgeon General issued a National Call to Action to encourage public-private partnerships to promote oral health. The Whatcom County Health Department responded locally in February 2004 by convening an oral health summit with financial support from St. Joseph Hospital and the Mt. Baker District Dental Society.
Over 80 dental, medical, and social services professionals participated in the summit, providing their recommendations for how to reduce dental decay and disease in children, adults, and seniors, living in Whatcom County. That day 50 summit participants signed on to form an oral health coalition.
Purpose
Tooth decay is the most common chronic disease of childhood, 5 times more common than childhood asthma. Adults also experience the burden of dental disease. For every adult without medical insurance, 3 lack dental insurance. In 2003, a local oral health assessment showed that Whatcom County residents are particularly at risk of dental decay due to lack of water fluoridation and poor access to care.
The Whatcom County Oral Health Coalition is working to improve oral health for community members of all ages through prevention, education, and increased access to dental care.
Structure
Currently, the Coalition consists of an executive committee, active workgroups, and over 100 members who receive our quarterly newsletters and participate in coalition events. Quarterly Coalition meetings include updates and a spotlight issue.