Exploring barriers to oral health care access, solutions

Experts participating in a recently held round-table discussion called for promoting global access to oral health care by integrating it into primary health care and presented innovative approaches and practical solutions to improve accessibility.

The full-day discussion was organised by FDI, with support from Unilever, to review the existing evidence on the challenges to achieving universal access to oral care.

The participants discussed what constitutes appropriate access to oral care and reviewed best practices for expanding access through integration into primary health care systems.

Oral diseases, which are largely preventable, continue to be the most common non-communicable diseases (NCDs) worldwide. However, individuals in low- and middle-income countries face the greatest burden of oral health issues due to limited access to necessary services and care.

Despite overwhelming evidence highlighting the importance of oral health as a fundamental right and a vital component of overall well-being, Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programs in many countries do not include oral health services in their coverage. Even in countries where some coverage is available, there are significant gaps in essential preventive and clinical services, particularly among vulnerable, disadvantaged, rural, or economically marginalized populations.

Prior to the discussion, Dental Check-up host Tony Johnston conducted interviews with three round table participants from various fields of practice, including clinical practice and service management, policy analysis, advocacy, and academia. These interviews sought their perspectives on the significance of the event. By gathering insights from these diverse perspectives, a comprehensive understanding of the essential components necessary to ensure appropriate access to oral care was provided.

Dr Grace Dubois, Senior Policy Manager at the NCD Alliance, states, "Oral health is closely interconnected with the overall health of individuals, so I am keen on exploring its links with other NCDs. There are numerous opportunities this year to advance access to care as a whole, including the upcoming UHC high-level meeting in September."

Prof Manu Mathur, Professor of Dental Public Health at Queen Mary University of London, highlights the isolation of oral health from the broader health system as a major obstacle to accessing oral health care. He emphasizes the importance of integrating oral health into the larger healthcare framework to address this issue effectively.

FDI's Vision 2030 emphasizes that integrating essential oral health care into primary health care can improve accessibility. Dr. Irving McKenzie, Chief Dental Officer of Jamaica, emphasizes the importance of oral health as an integral part of overall health, aligning with the World Health Organization's (WHO) focus on UHC. He stresses that oral health should be available to those in need, at the desired quality and appropriate level, whenever required.

As a result of the round table discussion, a recently published white paper sheds light on the significant barriers that hinder access to oral health care. The paper also highlights actionable solutions that policymakers can advocate for and implement to overcome these barriers.